defibrillate

[ dee-fahy-bruh-leyt, -fib-ruh- ]

verb (used with object)

, Medicine/Medical.

, de·fi·bril·lat·ed, de·fi·bril·lat·ing.

1. to arrest the fibrillation of (heart muscle) by applying electric shock across the chest, thus depolarizing the heart cells and allowing normal rhythm to return.

Other Words From

• de·fibril·lation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of defibrillate¹

1930–35; de- + fibrillate, back formation from fibrillation

Example Sentences

The now white material was subjected to ultrasonic treatment to defibrillate the pulp at a mycelial level.

From Science Daily

His teammates, fans at the stadium and millions at home watching the national broadcast were left stunned as Hamlin was administered CPR, defibrillated and transported by ambulance to a hospital.

From Los Angeles Times

"The faster you can get to somebody and have effective CPR and then defibrillate them with an AED the better the outcomes are going to be."

From Salon

He was administered CPR, defibrillated and transported by ambulance to a hospital.

From Los Angeles Times

But players and coaches have insisted all week that the rivalry has provided the jolt they needed to defibrillate a lifeless season.

From Los Angeles Times