verb (used without object), pal·pi·tat·ed, pal·pi·tat·ing.
- to pulsate with unusual rapidity from exertion, emotion, disease, etc.; flutter: His heart palpitated wildly.
- to pulsate; quiver; throb; tremble.
verb (used with object), pal·pi·tat·ed, pal·pi·tat·ing.
- to cause to pulsate or tremble.
verb (intr)
- (of the heart) to beat with abnormal rapidity
- to flutter or tremble
v.1620s, from Latin palpitatus, past participle of palpitare “to throb, flutter” (see palpitation). Related: Palpitated; palpitating.