Other

see-saw

Pronunciation: /ˈsiːsɔː/

Definition of see-saw

a long plank balanced in the middle on a fixed support, on each end of which children sit and swing up and down by pushing the ground alternately with their feet.
a situation characterized by rapid, repeated changes from one state or condition to another:the emotional see-saw of a first love affair [as modifier]:see-saw interest rates

[no object]

change rapidly and repeatedly from one position, situation, or condition to another and back again:the market see-sawed as rumours spread of an imminent cabinet reshuffle
[with object] cause (something) to move back and forth or up and down rapidly and repeatedly:Sybil see-sawed the car back and forth

Origin:

mid 17th century (originally used by sawyers as a rhythmical refrain): reduplication of the verb saw¹ (symbolic of the sawing motion)

Definition of see-saw in the US English dictionary

Nearby words