defibrillator
dee-FIB-rih-lay-ter
/ˌdiːˈfɪbrɪleɪtər/
A device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm, especially after cardiac arrest.
Specifically refers to the medical device used to treat certain life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias by delivering a controlled electrical shock.
The story behind the word. The word 'defibrillator' is a modern medical term, formed from the Latin prefix 'de-' (meaning 'remove' or 'reverse'), 'fibra' (meaning 'fiber'), and the suffix '-ator' (indicating an agent or instrument). It refers to a device that 'removes' or 'reverses' 'fibrillation,' which is a chaotic, ineffective twitching of muscle fibers in the heart. The first successful human defibrillation occurred in 1947, leading to the development of these life-saving devices.
Word relationships
- AED (Automated External Defibrillator): AED is a specific type of defibrillator designed for public use by non-medical personnel, while defibrillator is the general term.
Word family
- defibrillate (verb): To stop the fibrillation of (a heart) by applying an electric shock.
- defibrillation (noun): The act or process of defibrillating.
Collocations
- automated external defibrillator (AED)
- implantable defibrillator
- use a defibrillator
Example sentences
- "Public places like airports and shopping malls often have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) available for emergencies." Describing medical equipment.
- "The medical team used a defibrillator to shock the patient's heart back into a regular rhythm." Referring to its use.
- "Learning how to operate a defibrillator is a key component of advanced life support training." In a training scenario.
Memory hook
A 'DE-FIB-rill-ATOR' 'DE-activates' the 'FIB-rillation' (chaotic heartbeats) with an 'ATOR' (shock). De-fibrillate heart
When not to use
Do not use for any other electrical device. It is a specific medical instrument.
Fun facts
- The first external defibrillator was invented by Claude Beck in 1947.
- AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, providing voice prompts and visual cues to guide rescuers through the process, making them accessible to the public.
Related words
Explore more words
cardiovascular, galvanize, defuse, rehabilitate, adrenaline, stun
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