fluctuating

UK: ˈflʌktʃueɪtɪŋ | US: ˈflʌktʃueɪtɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. changing frequently in an irregular way

  2. v. (present participle of fluctuate) to rise and fall unevenly

Structure
fluctuat <wave>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin fluctuare (to wave, undulate), from fluctus (a wave), which itself comes from fluere (to flow). The root fluct- reflects motion or instability, while -ing marks the present participle form in English. The word vividly captures the idea of something moving like waves—unpredictable and dynamic.

Examples

  1. Stock prices have been fluctuating wildly this week.

  2. Her mood kept fluctuating between joy and despair.

  3. The temperature is fluctuating due to the unstable weather.

  4. Demand for the product fluctuates seasonally.

  5. His voice fluctuated as he struggled to control his emotions.