undulate
UK: ˈʌndjʊleɪt | US: ˈʌndʒəleɪt
vi. to move with a smooth, wavelike motion
vt. to cause to move in waves
adj. having a wavy form or appearance
undulate = und<wave> + ulate<verb suffix>
- und (from Latin unda meaning "wave")
- ulate (Latin-derived verb suffix indicating action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word undulate traces back to the Latin unda (wave), reflecting its core meaning of wave-like motion. The suffix -ulate transforms it into a verb, emphasizing the action of moving in waves. This logical progression—from a concrete noun (wave) to a dynamic verb (to move like waves)—showcases how Latin roots evolved into precise English scientific and descriptive terms.
The flag undulated gently in the breeze.
She undulated her hips to the rhythm of the music.
The fields of wheat undulated across the landscape.
Snakes undulate their bodies to move smoothly.
The artist painted undulate lines to mimic ocean waves.