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Definition of oscillation

oscillation

/ˌɑːsəˈleɪʃən/
os · cil · la · tion
Plural:oscillations
•
Adjective:oscillatory
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oscillation Lexical Profile

oscillation Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A regular, repetitive movement back and forth around a central point or position.

Example

"The steady oscillation of the grandfather clock's pendulum helped keep accurate time."

2

A continual fluctuation or wavering between two states, opinions, emotions, or values.

Example

"His constant oscillation between optimism and despair made it difficult for his colleagues to predict his decisions."

3

A periodic variation in the magnitude of an electrical current, voltage, or electromagnetic wave.

Example

"The engineer used an oscilloscope to measure the high-frequency oscillation in the circuit."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for oscillation

• Nearby Words

oscar fish
oscars
oscillate
oscillation
oscilloscope
oseltamivir
oslo

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Latin oscillatio ('a swinging'), derived from oscillum, meaning a small mask of Bacchus hung from a tree that swung in the wind.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Oscillation. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/oscillation
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