Meaning of oscillate in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈɑsəˌleɪt/

   US accent

   How to pronounce oscillate in American English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

   UK accent

   How to pronounce oscillate in British English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

1. Verb

   oscillate

   Etymology

   early 18th century: from Latin oscillat-‘swung’, from the verb oscillare

   Definitions

   1. be undecided about something

   Examples

   • « waver between conflicting positions or courses of action »
   • « He oscillates between accepting the new position and retirement »
2. 2. move or swing from side to side regularly

   Examples

   • « the needle on the meter was oscillating »