as in to vary
to pass from one form, state, or level to another temperatures will fluctuate between the low and high 50s today

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb fluctuate differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of fluctuate are oscillate, sway, swing, undulate, vibrate, and waver. While all these words mean "to move from one direction to its opposite," fluctuate suggests constant irregular changes of level, intensity, or value.

fluctuating interest rates

When would oscillate be a good substitute for fluctuate?

Although the words oscillate and fluctuate have much in common, oscillate stresses a usually regular alternation of direction.

an oscillating fan

Where would sway be a reasonable alternative to fluctuate?

While in some cases nearly identical to fluctuate, sway implies a slow swinging or teetering movement.

trees swaying in the breeze

When can swing be used instead of fluctuate?

The synonyms swing and fluctuate are sometimes interchangeable, but swing implies a movement of something attached at one end or one side.

the door suddenly swung open

When is it sensible to use undulate instead of fluctuate?

In some situations, the words undulate and fluctuate are roughly equivalent. However, undulate suggests a gentle wavelike motion.

an undulating sea of grass

When might vibrate be a better fit than fluctuate?

While the synonyms vibrate and fluctuate are close in meaning, vibrate suggests the rapid oscillation of an elastic body under stress or impact.

the vibrating strings of a piano

When could waver be used to replace fluctuate?

The words waver and fluctuate can be used in similar contexts, but waver stresses irregular motion suggestive of reeling or tottering.

the exhausted runner wavered before collapsing

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 fluctuate Those prices will fluctuate based on demand and fans will be able to purchase single-game tickets, venue-specific tickets and team-specific packages. Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 3 Sep. 2025 As his presidency continues, his approval rating more generally will likely fluctuate in line with global events and his policies. Kate Plummer, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025 The volatility of cryptocurrencies is significant, with prices frequently fluctuating sharply over brief durations. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 The price of gold followed a similar upward trajectory in 2023, with fluctuating interest rates, banking issues, and fears of a recession contributing to the boom. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fluctuate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fluctuate
Verb
  • Individual year-over-year market values varied greatly, ranging from an over 16% increase one year to an under 1% increase another.
    Madeline King, Kansas City Star, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Guest rooms vary in size, many with circular windows, while a children’s playroom and creative studio round out the upper level.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Absent a miracle that changes Grassley’s position on maintaining the blue slip tradition, Shipley said, the administration may have to return to the more conventional path of compromise.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 3 Sep. 2025
  • The report cautions that spending plans could shift if tariff concerns or economic conditions change.
    Joan Verdon, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • In a market where the audience can shift overnight, PacSun is betting that its ability to learn and adapt in real time is the ultimate competitive advantage.
    Jamie Gutfreund, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Last week, the actress was seen on set in London for her new film, Anxious People, sporting a light blonde bob — a drastic change from her usual long brunette locks, though in recent months she's shifted towards a lighter hue.
    Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fluctuate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fluctuate. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on fluctuate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!