pendulum

noun

pen·​du·​lum ˈpen-jə-ləm 

ˈpen-dyə-,

-də-

1

: a body suspended from a fixed point so as to swing freely to and fro under the action of gravity and commonly used to regulate movements (as of clockwork)

2

: something (such as a state of affairs) that alternates between opposites

doesn't take much to swing the pendulum of opinion the other way

Examples of pendulum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Ferrari’s announcement is more evidence that the pendulum has swung swiftly the other way. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 10 Oct. 2025

In this state, trillions or more electrons effectively behave like a single entity, resembling the mass collections of atoms that form everyday objects like pendulums or billiard balls. —Zhixin Wang, The Conversation, 10 Oct. 2025

The industry shift comes as the pendulum of consumer taste swings from TV to YouTube. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 8 Oct. 2025

Designer Eleanor Tate Trepte of Dekay & Tate predicts the pendulum is going to swing the other way, and that more classic finishes like polished nickel and chrome are poised for a comeback. —Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 1 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, neuter of pendulus

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pendulum

• Foucault pendulum

Kids Definition

pendulum

noun

pen·​du·​lum ˈpen-jə-ləm 

: a body hung from a fixed point so as to swing freely back and forth under the action of gravity

Etymology

from scientific Latin pendulum "something suspended so as to swing freely," from Latin pendulus "suspended," from pendēre "to hang" — related to depend, perpendicular