oscillate

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb oscillate differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of oscillate are fluctuate, sway, swing, undulate, vibrate, and waver. While all these words mean "to move from one direction to its opposite," oscillate stresses a usually regular alternation of direction.

an oscillating fan

Where would fluctuate be a reasonable alternative to oscillate?

While the synonyms fluctuate and oscillate are close in meaning, fluctuate suggests constant irregular changes of level, intensity, or value.

fluctuating interest rates

When is it sensible to use sway instead of oscillate?

The words sway and oscillate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sway implies a slow swinging or teetering movement.

trees swaying in the breeze

When is swing a more appropriate choice than oscillate?

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

the door suddenly swung open

In what contexts can undulate take the place of oscillate?

The meanings of undulate and oscillate largely overlap; however, undulate suggests a gentle wavelike motion.

an undulating sea of grass

When would vibrate be a good substitute for oscillate?

While in some cases nearly identical to oscillate, 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 oscillate?

Although the words waver and oscillate have much in common, 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 oscillate Whether oscillating, revolving, or pulsating—each sprinkler had its own set of benefits and games to go along with. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 20 June 2025 And in phase three, the populations of the remaining species started oscillating wildly, revealing a loss of stability. Gabriel Popkin, Quanta Magazine, 16 June 2025 Control of its governorship, its Legislature, its congressional delegation and its presidential electoral votes had shifted back and forth as the mood of voters oscillated. Dan Walters, Mercury News, 7 June 2025 Our own Better Homes & Gardens oscillating tower fan from our Walmart line is a great option for those who want an effective oscillating fan that looks great without breaking the bank. Jessica Comstock, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for oscillate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oscillate
Verb
  • Recently, the price has fluctuated more between $65 and $95, which makes this Prime Day star projector deal worth getting.
    Alexander Cox, Space.com, 10 July 2025
  • The numbers will almost certainly fluctuate by state.
    Sasha Hupka, AZCentral.com, 9 July 2025
Verb
  • The sea birds can sense shifts in currents and use it to maximize their efficiency by alternating their travel routes.
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 17 July 2025
  • In recent years, the White Sox have alternated between a pitcher and shortstop in the first round.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2025
Verb
  • Still, the showstopper here is the undulating Landscape Sofa by Nina Edwards Anker for Dune, custom upholstered in ultrasuede.
    Leonora Epstein, Architectural Digest, 7 July 2025
  • The doorway will be undulating, the reception desk wavy, and mirrors free form, reflecting the artist’s signature organic shapes.
    Beth Landman, HollywoodReporter, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • When Bacho moves in to make a move, Sakamoto swings a stock pot at Bacho's head, rendering him unconscious.
    Allison DeGrushe Published, EW.com, 14 July 2025
  • But when the opportunity presented itself to purchase the building block, Batchelor swung at the chance.
    Madeline Weinfield, Southern Living, 13 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Oscillate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oscillate. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on oscillate

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