flatline

Definition

An asystole; the absence of heart contractions or brain waves.

Etymology

From flat + line. Refers to a continuous straight line (asystole) on an ECG (EKG) or EEG, indicating death.

Example Sentences

• "When brain function ceases, the electroencephalogram shows flatline recordings."
• "Thus, you hear words like "flatline recession," "improvement at a greatly reduced rate," "economic hiccup," "recessionette," "rolling readjustment" and "the economy is double clutching.""