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    Vaivén (en. Sway)

    /bai̯ˈβen/

    Meaning & Definition

    EnglishSpanish
    noun
    The oscillating movement of an object from side to side.
    The back-and-forth of the hammock was very relaxing.
    El vaivén de la hamaca era muy relajante.
    The alternating and repeated movement that a mechanism performs.
    The swing of the pendulum marked the time.
    El vaivén del péndulo marcaba el tiempo.
    Description of instability in decision-making.
    Her emotional back-and-forth led her to erratic conclusions.
    Su vaivén emocional la llevaba a conclusiones erráticas.

    Etymology

    From the verb 'vaiver', which means to move back and forth.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    to be in a back-and-forth
    To be in an unstable or uncertain situation.
    estar en un vaivén
    to give a back-and-forth
    To move something in an oscillating manner.
    dar vaivén
    emotional back-and-forth
    Frequent changes in emotional state.
    vaivén de emociones

    Related Words

    rocking
    Movement or displacement from side to side.
    balanceo
    oscillation
    Alternating movement over a point of equilibrium.
    oscilación
    alternation
    Successive change of two or more things.
    alternancia

    Slang Meanings

    Referring to an indecisive person.
    Don't be wishy-washy, decide already.
    No seas vaivén, decide ya.
    Describes an environment of instability.
    The situation at work is a constant back-and-forth.
    La situación en el trabajo es un vaivén constante.