see-saw

 
Pronunciation: /ˈsiːsɔː/

noun

  • 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

verb

[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)