Meaning & Definition of word "Revolve"

Revolve

/rɪˈvɒlv/

verb:

  • 1. to move in a circular or curved path around a central point.
    • Example: The Earth revolves around the Sun once every year.
  • 2. to turn over in one’s mind; to contemplate or consider thoughtfully.
    • Example: He continued to revolve the problem in his mind until a solution emerged.
  • 3. to cause to move in a circular path; to rotate.
    • Example: The machine's gears revolve at a high speed during operation.

Etymology

Middle English: from Latin 'revolvere', meaning 'to roll back'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

revolve around:

To focus on or center predominantly on something.

revolve in one's mind:

To think about something repeatedly or deeply.

the revolving door:

Often used to refer metaphorically to a situation where things are changing quickly.

Related Words

revolution:

A fundamental change in power or organizational structures.

revolute:

Curved like the edge of a circle or reflecting a circular shape.

Slang Meanings of revolve

Meaning: To go in circles on an idea or topic.

Example Sentence: We've been revolving around that idea for too long without making a decision.

Meaning: To change one's mood or attitude repeatedly.

Example Sentence: He's been revolving through his emotions all day.