oscillate
1 of 1verb/ˈɑs.ə.ˌleɪt/
Forms:oscillates,oscillating,oscillated,oscillated
1
to move back and forth repeatedly between two points or positions
- The pendulum swung back and forth, oscillating steadily over time.
- The metronome on the piano oscillated, providing a steady beat for the musician to follow.
- The scientist observed the needle on the meter oscillate between high and low readings.
- The windshield wipers on the car oscillated, clearing the raindrops with each motion.
- The stock market is currently oscillating between gains and losses.
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2
to move back and forth in a regular rhythm between two or more states, positions, or opinions
- Political views may oscillate from liberal to conservative as people experience different life stages.
- Sarah found herself oscillating between supporting gun rights and stricter laws, unable to conclusively take one side in the heated debate.
- During a midlife crisis, Tom's worldview oscillated between optimism and uncertainty as he reconsidered life goals and choices made decades earlier.
- The politician oscillates between opposing viewpoints, making it hard to predict his position.
- After hearing both arguments, he continues to oscillate without making a final choice.
3
(of an electric current) to vary in strength or direction in a consistent, repetitive cycle
- The signal generator caused the current to oscillate between high and low voltages.
- The electric field oscillates in both magnitude and direction as the wave travels through space.
- The amplitude of the wave oscillates, affecting the intensity of the transmitted signal.
Synonyms: