pacemaker

noun

pace·​mak·​er ˈpās-ˌmā-kər 

1

a

: one that sets the pace for another

b

: one that takes the lead or sets an example

2

a

: a group of cells or a body part (such as the sinus node of the heart) that serves to establish and maintain a rhythmic activity

b

: an electrical device for stimulating or steadying the heartbeat or reestablishing the rhythm of an arrested heart

pacemaking

ˈpās-ˌmā-kiŋ 

noun

Synonyms

• bellwether
• leader
• pacer
• pacesetter
• trendsetter

Examples of pacemaker in a Sentence

has long been regarded as a pacemaker in home electronics

Recent Examples on the Web

Patients also can get procedures such as the implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators, as well as cardiac ablation treatments to reduce arrhythmia episodes. —Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2024

Last year, Netanyahu had surgery to implant a pacemaker in his heart. —Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 31 Mar. 2024

The stimulator, like a brain pacemaker, delivers a current once every five minutes for a minute at a time. —Ed Stannard, Hartford Courant, 29 Feb. 2024

The most recent studies, however, suggest that the pacemaker of the heart changes and can no longer trigger stimulatory impulses as rapidly. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 14 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

pacemaker

noun

pace·​mak·​er ˈpā-ˌsmā-kər 

1

: a group of cells or a bodily part (as of the heart) that serves to establish and maintain a rhythmic bodily activity

2

: an electrical device for steadying or establishing the heartbeat

Medical Definition

pacemaker

noun

pace·​mak·​er ˈpā-ˌsmā-kər 

1

: a group of cells or a body part (as the sinoatrial node of the heart) that serves to establish and maintain a rhythmic activity

2

: an electrical device for stimulating or steadying the heartbeat or reestablishing the rhythm of an arrested heart

called also pacer