ScienceSeptember 1, 2026

oscillated

OSS-ih-lay-tid

Definition

Moving or swinging back and forth at a regular speed or rhythm.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'oscillare,' meaning to swing, which historically referred to swinging on a rope or the practice of swinging images of gods in trees during festivals.

In the news

In the article, the word describes how trapped air moves back and forth within a bottle or cavity to generate sound waves or propulsion.

August research roundup: 7 cool science stories we almost missed

Read the full article ↗

Ars Technica

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