pacemaker
UK[ˈpeɪsˌmeɪkə]US[ˈpeɪsˌmeɪkər]
n
An artificial device placed in the body to regulate the heartbeat.
n
A person or thing that sets the pace or serves as a model for others.
Morpheme Breakdown
pace
maker
pace
rate
maker
one who makes
Etymology
The word "pacemaker" is a transparent English compound formed from two native elements. "Pace" entered English from the Latin passus (a step, stride), which evolved through Old French to denote the rate of movement. "Maker" derives from the Old English verb macian. The term was first used in the late 19th century in a literal sense for a runner who sets the speed for others in a race. Its medical application emerged in the mid-20th century, following the invention of the artificial cardiac device, applying the same core logic of an entity that establishes and maintains a steady, controlled rate.
Analysis
Structure: pace (rate) + maker (one who makes)
- pace: From Latin passus (step, pace), via Old French pas. In this compound, it signifies "rate or speed of movement."
- maker: From Old English macian (to make). In this compound, it functions as an agent noun suffix meaning "one who makes or creates."
Examples
After his surgery, he had a small pacemaker implanted to regulate his heart rhythm.
The company has long been a pacemaker in the field of renewable energy technology.
The lead runner acted as a pacemaker for the first half of the marathon.