flatline

verb

flat·​line ˈflat-ˌlīn How to pronounce flatline (audio)
flatlined; flatlining; flatlines

intransitive verb

1
a
: to register on an electronic monitor as having no brain waves or heartbeat
b
: die
2
a
: to be in a state of no progress or advancement
b
: to come to an end
flatliner noun

Examples of flatline in a Sentence

the patient was fading fast, and doctors expected him to flatline before the night was over
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.
Trump’s office and retail properties mostly flatlined, and his new social-media venture bled cash, though his stake in the unprofitable business is still worth $1.9 billion. Dan Alexander, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024 When Harrison joined Villa, his aim was to put the academy back on an upward trajectory following a period of flatlining. Jacob Tanswell, The Athletic, 22 July 2024 The company’s shipment growth to China flatlined year-on-year in the third quarter. Arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 25 Oct. 2024 That’s enough oomph to resuscitate a flatlining iPhone 12 Pro at least three times. Jen Murphy, Outside Online, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for flatline 

Word History

First Known Use

1980, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of flatline was in 1980

Dictionary Entries Near flatline

Cite this Entry

“Flatline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flatline. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

flatline

intransitive verb
flat·​line ˈflat-ˌlīn How to pronounce flatline (audio)
flatlined; flatlining
1
: to register on an electronic monitor as having no heartbeat or brain waves : to experience cessation of heart contractions or brain wave activity as indicated by a flat line on a electrocardiogram or electroencephalogram
I flatlined on the operating table, but Dr. Bunsom managed to revive me.Alison Wright, Yoga Journal
He used to be ill quite a bit as a younger child, and his heart flatlined four times before he was 6.Ginnie Graham, Tulsa World
2
: die entry 1
But just because death is expected doesn't mean it's any less depressing when the patient finally flatlines.Phil Taylor, Sports Illustrated
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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