Meaning & Definition of word "Fluctuate"
Fluctuate
/ˈflʌk.tʃu.eɪt/
verb:
- 1. to rise and fall irregularly in number or amount
- Example: The stock market tends to fluctuate throughout the day based on trading activity.
- 2. to vary or change, especially from one state to another
- Example: Temperatures can fluctuate greatly between day and night in the desert.
- 3. to move or sway in a rising and falling pattern
- Example: The water level in the lake fluctuates with the seasons.
- 4. to change continuously; to be uncertain or variable
- Example: His opinion on the matter began to fluctuate as new information came to light.
- 5. to alternate or oscillate between different levels
- Example: The prices of goods can fluctuate due to market demand.
Etymology
●Late Latin fluctuat-, fluctuans, from Latin fluctuare to flow, from fluctus wave.
Common Phrases and Expressions
price fluctuate:
To see prices change continuously in a market.
fluctuate wildly:
To change dramatically or unpredictably.
fluctuate between extremes:
To switch back and forth between two opposite states.
Related Words
oscillate:
To move or swing back and forth in a regular rhythm.
vary:
To change or alter, especially in form or nature.
vacillate:
To waver between different opinions or actions.
Slang Meanings of fluctuate
Meaning: Ride the wave
● Example Sentence: When prices fluctuate, just ride the wave and wait for the right moment to invest.
Meaning: Go with the flow
● Example Sentence: The market fluctuates a lot, so just go with the flow and adapt your strategy.