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Definition of pendulum

pendulum

/ˈpɛn.dʒə.ləm/
pen · du · lum
Adverb:pendulously
•
Plural:pendulums
•
Adjective:pendulous
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pendulum Lexical Profile

pendulum Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A weight suspended from a pivot so that it can swing freely, especially a rod with a weight at the end that regulates the mechanism of a clock.

Example

"The old grandfather clock kept perfect time as its heavy brass pendulum swung steadily back and forth."

2

A tendency, situation, or state of affairs that alternates repeatedly between two opposing extremes.

Example

"The political pendulum often swings back toward the opposition party during midterm elections."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

pencil
pencilsmelt
pend oreille
pendulum
penguin
penguin tetra
penna

Word Origin & Etymology

Mid 17th century: from modern Latin, noun use of the neuter of Latin pendulus 'hanging down', from pendere 'to hang'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pendulum. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pendulum
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