gyrate

UK: ˈdʒaɪəreɪt | US: ˈdʒaɪreɪt

Definition

  1. vi. to move in a circular or spiral path

  2. vt. to cause something to rotate or spiral

Structure
gyr <circle>ate <verb suffix>gyr <circle>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "gyrate" traces back to the Greek gyros, meaning "ring" or "curve," reflecting circular motion. Latin adopted it as gyrare (to revolve), which evolved into English "gyrate" in the 19th century. The suffix -ate standardizes it as a verb, preserving the core idea of rotational movement.

Examples

  1. The leaves gyrate slowly as they fall from the tree.

  2. The dancer’s hips gyrate to the rhythm of the music.

  3. The helicopter blades began to gyrate faster as it took off.

  4. Particles in a centrifuge gyrate at high speeds.

  5. The tornado caused debris to gyrate violently in the air.