revolve
rih-VOLV
Revolve (verb) means to move in a circular path around a central point. Example: “The Earth revolves around the Sun.”
verb
1
To move in a circular path around a central point.
"The Earth revolves around the Sun."
2
To turn or rotate on an axis.
"The restaurant sits atop a tower that slowly revolves."
3
To have something as a central focus or theme.
"His whole life revolves around his work."
How to use revolve
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo go around a central point, or (figuratively) to have something as the main focus.
Common mistake
Orbiting is "revolving around" something else, while spinning in place is "rotating" — the Earth revolves around the Sun but rotates on its own axis.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
revolve around
the plot revolves around
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Word forms
- Plural
- revolves
- Third person singular
- revolves
- Past tense
- revolved
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The Earth _____ around the Sun.
Etymology
From Old French revolver, from Latin revolvere, "to roll back" — re- plus volvo, "to roll".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for revolve
See all rhymes for revolve →Frequently asked questions
What does “revolve” mean?
The word “revolve” means to move in a circular path around a central point. In plain terms, to go around a central point, or (figuratively) to have something as the main focus.
How do you pronounce “revolve”?
“Revolve” is pronounced rih-VOLV (/ɹɪˈvɑlv/ in IPA).
How do you use “revolve” in a sentence?
Here is “revolve” used in a sentence: “The Earth revolves around the Sun.”
What part of speech is “revolve”?
“Revolve” is a verb.
Where does the word “revolve” come from?
The word “revolve” comes from Latin. From Old French revolver, from Latin revolvere, "to roll back" — re- plus volvo, "to roll".
Is “revolve” a common word?
“Revolve” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “revolve” have?
“Revolve” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to move in a circular path around a central point.
