Definition

A condition where the heartbeat is irregular, either in its rhythm or strength.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with arrhythmia after she reported feeling her heart racing.

Conversation

I heard that you had to see the doctor recently.

Yeah, they mentioned something about an arrhythmia during my check-up.

That sounds serious, what does that mean exactly?

It's just an irregular heartbeat, but I'm trying to stay calm about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Arrhythmia → It is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "rhythmia" (from Greek "rhythmos", meaning rhythm). The word describes a condition where there is an absence of normal rhythm, particularly in the heartbeat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') normal 'rhythm' ('rhythmos') — that's why arrhythmia refers to an irregular heartbeat.

Visually Confused Words