nutation

nu·ta·tion

noun \nü-ˈtā-shən, nyü-\

Definition of NUTATION

1

archaic : the act of nodding the head

2

: oscillatory movement of the axis of a rotating body (as the earth) : wobble

3

: a spontaneous usually spiral movement of a growing plant part

— nu·ta·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

Origin of NUTATION

Latin nutation-, nutatio, from nutare to nod, rock — more at numen

First Known Use: 1612