oscillate

 
Pronunciation: /ˈɒsɪleɪt/

verb

[no object]
  • 1move or swing back and forth in a regular rhythm: the grain pan near the front of the combine oscillates back and forth
  • [with adverbial] vary or fluctuate between two states, limits, opinions, etc.: he was oscillating between fear and bravery
  • 2 Physics vary in magnitude or position in a regular manner about a central point.
  • (of a circuit or device) cause the electric current or voltage running through it to behave in this way.

Derivatives

oscillatory

Pronunciation: /ɒˈsɪlət(ə)ri, ˈɒsɪləˌt(ə)ri/
adjective

Origin:

early 18th century: from Latin oscillat- 'swung', from the verb oscillare

Spelling help

Spell oscillate with osci- at the beginning, then a double l.