Ectopic beat is a term used in cardiology to describe a heart rhythm disturbance. It refers to an abnormal beat that originates from a different part of the heart than the normal pacemaker. Synonyms for ectopic beat include premature beat, extrasystole, and premature ventricular contraction. Premature beat is defined as a beat that occurs earlier than the regular heartbeat and can be caused by stress, caffeine, and alcohol consumption. Extrasystole is a term used to describe a heart beat that originates in the cardiac muscle outside the sinoatrial node, which is the natural pacemaker of the heart. Premature ventricular contraction is a type of extrasystole that originates in the ventricles and can also be caused by stress and lifestyle factors.