cardiac arrest

noun

: temporary or permanent cessation of the heartbeat

Examples of cardiac arrest in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Earlier this month, a 36-year-old Ohio man died from cardiac arrest and burns after he was struck by lightning while playing soccer. Christopher Cann, USA Today, 18 July 2025 The prolific Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill and Donnie Brasco actor died of cardiac arrest brought on by cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, and chronic alcoholism. Denise Petski, Deadline, 17 July 2025 Picked up later by police in Mexico, Strong died of cardiac arrest while awaiting extradition in Weatherley’s killing. Audrey Dutton, ProPublica, 16 July 2025 Christopher died in 2004 from cardiac arrest at 52. Rachel Flynn, People.com, 12 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for cardiac arrest

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cardiac arrest was in 1873

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cardiac arrest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cardiac%20arrest. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

cardiac arrest

noun
: abrupt temporary or permanent cessation of the heartbeat (as from ventricular fibrillation or asystole)

called also sudden cardiac arrest

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!