defibrillator

[ dee-fahy-bruh-ley-ter, -fib-ruh- ]

noun

, Medicine/Medical.

1. an agent or device for arresting fibrillation of the atrial or ventricular muscles of the heart.

defibrillator

/ dɪˈfaɪbrɪˌleɪtə; -ˈfɪb- /

noun

1. med an apparatus for stopping fibrillation of the heart by application of an electric current to the chest wall or directly to the heart

Word History and Origins

Origin of defibrillator¹

First recorded in 1955–60; de- + fibrill(ation) + -ator

Example Sentences

"If something happens, I'd encourage everyone to make sure it's safe and start CPR, get someone to call an ambulance and get the defibrillator," he said.

From BBC

At the 14-year-old's inquest, his paediatrician and the coroner asked if adrenaline could be available in public places, in much the same way as defibrillators.

From BBC

Police officers arrived at the scene within minutes, where they carried out CPR and used a defibrillator, ultimately saving Mr Owen's life.

From BBC

Mr Lillis said he used a defibrillator on Mr Kilichev, which gives a jolt of energy to the heart to help restore a normal heartbeat.

From BBC

Kotb reminded Biles of a previous interview where she had joked that she would need a defibrillator if a certain celebrity showed up.

From Los Angeles Times