1
as in fluctuation
the frequent and usually sudden passing from one condition to another fickle springtime weather in which there seemed to be an unceasing oscillation between unseasonable heat and unseasonable cold

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2
as in vibration
a series of slight movements by a body back and forth or from side to side the precise oscillations of the quartz crystal that allows a quartz watch to keep such accurate time

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of oscillation Quiet, but powerful, the Dyson AM07 tower fan features 10 precise airflow settings with 70-degree oscillation to keep you cool in hot weather. PC Magazine, 7 Oct. 2025 The key is to obtain superior measurements of the large-scale structure of the Universe, and in particular of the baryon acoustic oscillation signature imprinted into it. Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 3 Oct. 2025 Instead, gravitational waves, as natural quantum oscillations of space-time itself, are enough in this model to create the density fluctuations that lead to matter developing structures like galaxies, stars, and planets. Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Scientists have continued to develop light-flickering stimulation to induce gamma-wave oscillations in Alzheimer's disease patients. New Atlas, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for oscillation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oscillation
Noun
  • Developed by researchers from Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and 8 Rivers, the system leverages fluctuations in energy demand by using liquid oxygen storage (LOX) to make power plants more cost-effective and efficient.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2025
  • The fluctuations have a slightly larger magnitude on large-scales than small-scales, again consistent with inflation.
    Big Think, Big Think, 14 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • But Ferrari has waxed eloquent about how the Elettrica won't simply mimic engine noises but produce a 'direct and authentic expression of its components,' by amplifying the vibrations picked up by an accelerometer installed on the inverter casting in the motor assembly.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 10 Oct. 2025
  • Borussia Dortmund’s ‘Yellow Wall’ has shown that a connection with an old-fashioned home terrace vibration is possible in modern football.
    Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • How has Perez been preparing the ground for change?
    Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • When are the time changes for daylight saving time?
    Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Patients first experience twitching or weakness in a limb, often followed by slurred speech.
    Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Beyond ground shaking, earthquakes in the region can trigger landslides, tsunamis, and infrastructure collapse, underscoring the importance of preparedness and awareness.
    Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Lost in the trembling of my own body, trembling like Bunny’s body.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Olsen plays Joan’s indecision with winsome fluster, at first breathy and trembling but eventually finding her resolve.
    Richard Lawson, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Oscillation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oscillation. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

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