Definition

A state where there are no heartbeats or heart contractions, often shown on a heart monitor as a flat line.

Example

The doctor confirmed the patient had reached a flatline on the monitor, indicating no heart activity.

Conversation

Did you see that intense medical drama last night?

Yeah, I thought the scenes with the heart monitor were so realistic.

Right? I was really worried when they showed the flatline on the screen.

Same here! It added so much tension to the storyline.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To stop functioning or to reach a state where there is no activity or progress, often used in medical contexts to describe a lack of heartbeat or brain activity.

Example

The patient flatlined during the surgery, prompting immediate resuscitation efforts.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the project? It seems to have flatlined lately.

Yeah, I noticed that too; it feels like we're not making any progress.

Exactly! I really hope we can revive it before it flatlines completely.

Root Explanation

Flatline → It is formed from "flat" (from Old English *flaet*, meaning level or even) and "line" (from Latin *linea*, meaning a line or string). The term "flatline" refers to a straight, level line on a monitor that indicates no heart activity, symbolizing a state of no life or function.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'level' ('flat') line ('line') on a monitor that shows no heartbeat — that's what flatline means.

Visually Confused Words