saltatory

adjective

sal·​ta·​to·​ry ˈsal-tə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce saltatory (audio) ˈsȯl- How to pronounce saltatory (audio)
1
archaic : of or relating to dancing
2
: proceeding by leaps rather than by gradual transitions : discontinuous

Word History

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of saltatory was in 1656

Dictionary Entries Near saltatory

Cite this Entry

“Saltatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saltatory. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

saltatory

adjective
sal·​ta·​to·​ry ˈsal-tə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce saltatory (audio) ˈsȯl- How to pronounce saltatory (audio)
-ˌtȯr-
: proceeding by leaps rather than by gradual transitions
saltatory conduction of impulses in myelinated nerve fibers

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