undulation

noun

un·​du·​la·​tion ˌən-jə-ˈlā-shən 

ˌən-dyə-, 

ˌən-də-

1

a

: a rising and falling in waves

b

: a wavelike motion to and fro in a fluid or elastic medium propagated continuously among its particles but with little or no permanent translation of the particles in the direction of the propagation : vibration

2

: the pulsation caused by the vibrating together of two tones not quite in unison

3

: a wavy appearance, outline, or form : waviness

Examples of undulation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The AimPoint green-reading method is one glaring example — a process in which players judge the undulation of the green with their feet. — Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 20 July 2026

The fairways are wide, and the greens roll fast and true, many with large undulations and multiple tiers. — Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

The Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto took his inspiration from the light filtering through the surrounding trees and the undulations of sound waves to make something quietly sublime. — Joshua Levine, Travel + Leisure, 7 Apr. 2026

The Concerto began boldly with a sense of undulation and sharp energy. — Sheila Regan, Twin Cities, 28 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for undulation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

undulation

noun

un·​du·​la·​tion ˌən-jə-ˈlā-shən 

ˌən-d(y)ə-

1

: the action of undulating

2

: a wavy appearance or form : waviness