roller-coaster
UK: ˈrəʊləˌkəʊstə | US: ˈroʊlərˌkoʊstər
n. 1. An amusement ride consisting of a track with steep slopes and sharp curves, designed for thrill-seekers.
n. 2. A situation or experience characterized by abrupt, extreme changes (e.g., emotions, events).
The term emerged in the late 19th century, originally describing early gravity-driven railroad tracks used for coal transport. By the 1880s, it was repurposed for amusement rides, reflecting the dual motion of rolling wheels (roller) and gliding slopes (coaster). The metaphorical sense (emotional ups/downs) arose in the 1930s, mirroring the ride’s dramatic shifts.
The children screamed with joy on the roller-coaster’s steep drop.
Their relationship has been a roller-coaster of breakups and reconciliations.
Theme parks compete to build the tallest roller-coaster.
The stock market’s volatility feels like a financial roller-coaster.
She described her career as a roller-coaster, full of unexpected turns.