Meaning & use
oscillate
To move or swing repeatedly back and forth between two positions or states.
See it in a sentence
The fan's head oscillates slowly to spread cool air across the room.
Her mood seemed to oscillate between excitement and anxiety before the interview.
A note on using this word
Used literally for physical motion and figuratively for emotions, opinions, or decisions that keep changing.
Words with a similar meaning
swingfluctuate
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “oscillate”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.