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fluctuate

verb

/ˈflʌkʧəˌweɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fluctuate

To change or vary in something, usually in a repetitive or irregular manner.
"The demand for the product tends to fluctuate during the different seasons."

Detailed meaning of fluctuate

It can refer to changes in a wide range of things, such as prices, temperatures, emotions, or stock market values. Fluctuations can occur over different time scales, from short-term fluctuations that occur within minutes or hours, to longer-term fluctuations that occur over days, weeks, or even years. The changes can be up or down, and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as supply and demand, natural cycles, or external events. Fluctuations can also be influenced by human behavior, such as decisions made by policymakers, investors, or consumers. Understanding fluctuations is important in many fields, including economics, climate science, and psychology, as it can help to predict future trends and make better decisions.

Example sentences containing fluctuate

1. The stock market prices fluctuate throughout the trading day.
2. The temperature in the desert can fluctuate dramatically between day and night.
3. Consumer demand for the product fluctuates depending on the season.
4. The river levels fluctuate with the changing rainfall patterns.
5. The value of the cryptocurrency constantly fluctuates, making it a volatile investment.
6. The athlete's performance can fluctuate due to various factors like fatigue or injuries.

History and etymology of fluctuate

The verb 'fluctuate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'fluctuare,' which comes from 'fluctus,' meaning 'a wave' or 'to flow.' In Latin, 'fluctuare' originally meant to flow like a wave, signifying the undulating or wavelike motion of water. Over time, the term was adopted into English as 'fluctuate,' and it came to describe changes or variations in something, often in a repetitive or irregular manner. The etymology of 'fluctuate' vividly captures the idea of something rising and falling like waves, emphasizing the fluid and changing nature of the phenomenon it describes, whether it be prices, temperatures, or emotions.

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Further usage examples of fluctuate

1. The prices of groceries fluctuate based on supply and demand.
2. The company's profits fluctuate from quarter to quarter.
3. Public opinion on the issue fluctuates as new information emerges.
4. The exchange rates between currencies fluctuate daily in the global market.
5. The patient's blood pressure can fluctuate during the course of the day.
6. The weather conditions fluctuate unpredictably in this region.
7. The company's stock price fluctuates in response to market news and investor sentiment.
8. The availability of parking spaces at the mall fluctuates throughout the day.
9. The artist's productivity can fluctuate depending on their inspiration and motivation.
10. The interest rates on loans can fluctuate depending on economic conditions.
11. The population of certain animal species fluctuates in response to changes in their habitat.
12. The energy levels of a person can fluctuate throughout the day.
13. The quality of the Wi-Fi signal can fluctuate depending on the network congestion.
14. The performance of the team can fluctuate from game to game due to various factors.