fibrillation

[fib-ruh-ley-shuhn, fahy-bruh-]

noun

1. the formation of fibrils, or fine fibers or filaments.

2. Pathology.,  uncontrolled twitching or quivering of muscle fibers, such as those of the heart.

fibrillation

/ ˌfaɪbrɪˈleɪʃən, ˌfɪb- /

noun

1. a local and uncontrollable twitching of muscle fibres, esp of the heart, not affecting the entire muscle. Atrial fibrillation results in rapid and irregular heart and pulse rate. In ventricular fibrillation , the heart stops beating

2. irregular twitchings of the muscular wall of the heart, often interfering with the normal rhythmic contractions

fibrillation

1. A rapid twitching of muscle fibers, as of the heart, that is caused by the abnormal discharge of electrical nerve impulses. Ventricular fibrillation is life-threatening.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fibrillation¹

First recorded in 1830–40; fibrillate + -ion

Example Sentences

Was it the night when, despite my atrial fibrillation, I went for broke and surreptitiously swallowed a half-dose of generic Viagra?

From Los Angeles Times

They said that includes a recent fainting episode, and over the last five years, a broken back, a torn Achilles tendon and atrial fibrillation which could make Murdoch “unavailable for in-person testimony at trial.”

From Los Angeles Times

Authorities believe Hackman died on 18 February - the date of his last recorded pacemaker activity, which showed an abnormal rhythm of atrial fibrillation.

From BBC

She continues to suffer from atrial fibrillation, breathlessness and fatigue.

From BBC

It is also used in medical care to track heart conditions like myocardial infarctions, atrial fibrillation, and atherosclerosis.

From Science Daily