Palpitate (verb)

To beat rapidly and strongly, as the heart does when one is excited or frightened; to shake or quiver with a slight rapid motion.

Origin:

From latin palpitare, from palpitus a beating.

Examples:

1. His heart began to palpitate with fear.
2. The patient's heart was palpitating irregularly.
3. The leaves of the tree were palpitating in the wind.
4. His hands were palpitating as he took the stage.
5. The patient's heart was palpitating at an alarming rate.