verb

oscillate

Oscillate (verb) means to swing back and forth, especially if with a regular rhythm.

verb

To swing back and forth, especially if with a regular rhythm.

To vacillate between conflicting opinions, etc.

To vary above and below a mean value.

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Etymology

First attested in 1726; borrowed from Latin ōscillātus, perfect passive participle of Latin ōscillō (“to swing”) (see -ate (verb-forming suffix)), from ōscillum (“a swing”), usually identified with ōscillum (“a little face or mask hung on a tree that sways with the wind”), diminutive of ōs (“mouth, face”). See also osculate.

Rhymes for oscillate

ate date rate mate fate abate slate plate state grate create update

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Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of oscillate?

"oscillate" (verb) means to swing back and forth, especially if with a regular rhythm.

What are the different meanings of oscillate?

"oscillate" has 3 main meanings: 1. To swing back and forth, especially if with a regular rhythm; 2. To vacillate between conflicting opinions, etc; 3. To vary above and below a mean value.