pendulum
PEHND-zhuu-luhm
Pendulum (noun) means a weight hung from a fixed point that swings freely back and forth, often used to regulate a clock. Example: “The grandfather clock's pendulum ticked steadily in the hallway.”
noun
1
A weight hung from a fixed point that swings freely back and forth, often used to regulate a clock.
"The grandfather clock's pendulum ticked steadily in the hallway."
2
Figuratively, a situation or mood that swings between two opposite extremes.
"Public opinion is like a pendulum, swinging from outrage to indifference and back."
How to use pendulum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA swinging weight, or, figuratively, anything that shifts back and forth between two extremes.
Common pairings
pendulum swings
swing of the pendulum
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Word forms
- Plural
- pendulums, pendula
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The grandfather clock's _____ ticked steadily in the hallway.
Etymology
From Latin pendulus ("hanging").
Rhymes for pendulum
See all rhymes for pendulum →Frequently asked questions
What does “pendulum” mean?
The word “pendulum” means a weight hung from a fixed point that swings freely back and forth, often used to regulate a clock. In plain terms, a swinging weight, or, figuratively, anything that shifts back and forth between two extremes.
How do you pronounce “pendulum”?
“Pendulum” is pronounced PEHND-zhuu-luhm (/ˈpɛnd͡ʒələm/ in IPA).
How do you use “pendulum” in a sentence?
Here is “pendulum” used in a sentence: “The grandfather clock's pendulum ticked steadily in the hallway.”
What part of speech is “pendulum”?
“Pendulum” is a noun.
Where does the word “pendulum” come from?
The word “pendulum” comes from Latin. From Latin pendulus ("hanging").
Is “pendulum” a common word?
“Pendulum” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “pendulum” have?
“Pendulum” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a weight hung from a fixed point that swings freely back and forth, often used to regulate a clock.
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