Experiencing a sudden moment of surprise, fear, excitement, or romantic attraction that causes a noticeable change in heart rhythm.
This phrase reflects the actual physiological phenomenon of heart palpitations during emotional arousal, where the heart may seem to pause or beat irregularly. The expression has been used in English since at least the 18th century, capturing the universal experience of how strong emotions affect cardiac rhythm.
This is one of the most physiologically accurate emotional expressions in English - strong emotions really do cause heart rhythm changes through the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones. The phrase works for both positive emotions (seeing a crush) and negative ones (getting startled), showing how our cardiovascular system responds similarly to different types of intense feelings.
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