1
as in fluctuating
to move back and forth in a rhythmic manner
When a guitar string is plucked, it oscillates to produce sound waves in the air.
Related Words
Relevance
2
as in alternating
to continuously change from one belief, feeling, or condition to an opposite one
The model's hair color oscillates between bleach blond and jet black.
Related Words
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 oscillating
Included in the savings are a heat-busting oscillating tower fan from Dreo for those sticky summer days, a portable electric blender from NutriBullet for smoothies on the go, and cooling pillows from Casper designed for hot sleepers.
—
Nicol Natale,
PEOPLE,
26 June 2026
This wet-dry vacuum hosts up to 60 minutes of run time, including a hard-floor brush and a carpet brush for oscillating between surfaces, and a self-cleaning brush roll.
—
Nashia Baker,
Architectural Digest,
25 June 2026
The result is a movement whose surfaces absorb and redirect light in alternating intensities, oscillating in an almost alchemical interplay of matte depth and metallic sheen as the wrist moves.
—
Richard Mille Contributor,
Forbes.com,
25 June 2026
From oscillating fans to ice-cold beverages to no-cook dinners, keeping your home comfortable may require some creative tweaks and a break from routine.
—
Karen Brewer Grossman,
Southern Living,
23 June 2026
The interactions between the electrons of these oscillating atoms changed their angles too.
—
Ameya Paleja,
Interesting Engineering,
10 June 2026
The self-winding mechanical movement is also equipped with an 18-karat pink-gold oscillating weight and balance bridge—done up in the material specifically for this collection.
—
Nicole Hoey,
Robb Report,
4 June 2026
What follows is a candid discussion oscillating between the core components of Wachowski’s filmmaking philosophies and her experiences in gender transition, with aspirations towards a prolific future all the while.
—
Nick Newman,
IndieWire,
1 June 2026
The sphere at the top of the node bobs in the water, with the attached tube oscillating water within it, spinning turbines inside the structure that generate electricity.
—
Sasha Rogelberg,
Fortune,
14 May 2026
Nicol Natale,
PEOPLE,
26 June 2026
This wet-dry vacuum hosts up to 60 minutes of run time, including a hard-floor brush and a carpet brush for oscillating between surfaces, and a self-cleaning brush roll.
—
Nashia Baker,
Architectural Digest,
25 June 2026
The result is a movement whose surfaces absorb and redirect light in alternating intensities, oscillating in an almost alchemical interplay of matte depth and metallic sheen as the wrist moves.
—
Richard Mille Contributor,
Forbes.com,
25 June 2026
From oscillating fans to ice-cold beverages to no-cook dinners, keeping your home comfortable may require some creative tweaks and a break from routine.
—
Karen Brewer Grossman,
Southern Living,
23 June 2026
The interactions between the electrons of these oscillating atoms changed their angles too.
—
Ameya Paleja,
Interesting Engineering,
10 June 2026
The self-winding mechanical movement is also equipped with an 18-karat pink-gold oscillating weight and balance bridge—done up in the material specifically for this collection.
—
Nicole Hoey,
Robb Report,
4 June 2026
What follows is a candid discussion oscillating between the core components of Wachowski’s filmmaking philosophies and her experiences in gender transition, with aspirations towards a prolific future all the while.
—
Nick Newman,
IndieWire,
1 June 2026
The sphere at the top of the node bobs in the water, with the attached tube oscillating water within it, spinning turbines inside the structure that generate electricity.
—
Sasha Rogelberg,
Fortune,
14 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oscillating
Verb
-
That kind of determination may involve job duties, transportation, treatment side effects, fluctuating symptoms and the difference between working sometimes and working consistently.
-
Even summer packing lists call for a lightweight layer to beat fluctuating cabin temperatures and breezy oceanfront evenings, which is why the BeCalm Wrap-front Long-sleeve Shirt is a no-brainer buy at 38 percent off.
Verb
-
Trump has promised dozens of times now that a final deal is coming, alternating that with threats of total destruction.
-
The best treatment for these pests, which include aphids, white flies, and thrips, is typically done with alternating treatment of neem oil and insecticidal soap.
Verb
-
This tournament has built credibility by showcasing teams competing at a high level, then shaking hands afterward.
-
An earth-shaking roar The World Cup finally arrived in Kansas City after several years of preparation and anticipation.
Verb
-
When Doncic played for the Dallas Mavericks and led them to the 2024 NBA Finals, his two centers — Derek Lively and Daniel Gafford — were exceptional in their roles as lob threats, blocking shots and rolling to the rim.
-
All year, the coastline is a unique, peaceful, and untouched place, thanks to its state park status (no one’s rolling a cooler and beach umbrella onto these rocks).
Verb
-
The country’s massive celebrations have made international headlines, with videos of exuberant fans rocking cars and even buses going viral.
-
Just remember the most important part when rocking a bowl cut is the attitude.
Cite this Entry
“Oscillating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oscillating. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
