v. i. [ imp. & p. p. Palpitated p. pr. & vb. n. Palpitating ] [ L. palpitare, palpitatum, v. intens. fr. pappare. See Palpable. ] To beat rapidly and more strongly than usual; to throb; to bound with emotion or exertion; to pulsate violently; to flutter; -- said specifically of the heart when its action is abnormal, as from excitement. [ 1913 Webster ]