formal
to move or be shaped like waves
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agitate,
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bucket,
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convulse,
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jerk,
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jiggle,
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joggle,
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jolt,
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jounce,
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judder
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[chiefly British],
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quake,
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quiver,
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shake,
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shudder,
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vibrate,
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wobble
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(also wabble)
See the Dictionary Definition
Frequently Asked Questions About undulate
How does the verb undulate differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of undulate are fluctuate, oscillate, sway, swing, vibrate, and waver. While all these words mean "to move from one direction to its opposite," undulate suggests a gentle wavelike motion.
an undulating sea of grass
When is fluctuate a more appropriate choice than undulate?
While in some cases nearly identical to undulate, fluctuate suggests constant irregular changes of level, intensity, or value.
fluctuating interest rates
Where would oscillate be a reasonable alternative to undulate?
The words oscillate and undulate can be used in similar contexts, but oscillate stresses a usually regular alternation of direction.
an oscillating fan
When can sway be used instead of undulate?
While the synonyms sway and undulate are close in meaning, sway implies a slow swinging or teetering movement.
trees swaying in the breeze
When might swing be a better fit than undulate?
Although the words swing and undulate have much in common, swing implies a movement of something attached at one end or one side.
the door suddenly swung open
When would vibrate be a good substitute for undulate?
The meanings of vibrate and undulate largely overlap; however, vibrate suggests the rapid oscillation of an elastic body under stress or impact.
the vibrating strings of a piano
When is it sensible to use waver instead of undulate?
In some situations, the words waver and undulate are roughly equivalent. However, waver stresses irregular motion suggestive of reeling or tottering.
the exhausted runner wavered before collapsing
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Time Traveler for undulate
The first known use of undulate was in 1658
See more words from the same year