The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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revolve

verb

/rɪˈvɒlv/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of revolve

To move in a circular or orbital path around a central point or axis.
"His life seems to revolve around his work, leaving little time for personal pursuits."

Detailed meaning of revolve

This can be seen in the rotation of planets around the sun or the circular motion of a spinning top.

The verb 'revolve' has several other meanings, encompassing both physical and metaphorical concepts.

'Revolve' can also describe the act of turning or rotating something, such as a wheel on an axle, gears in a machine, or the spinning motion of a ceiling fan.

In a metaphorical sense, 'revolve' can describe the cyclical nature of thoughts, ideas, or concerns that repeatedly occupy one's mind. For example, someone's thoughts might revolve around a particular problem or a recurring theme.

Additionally, 'revolve' can indicate the central focus or theme of something. In this sense, a story or plot may revolve around a specific event or character, emphasizing their importance in the narrative.

'Revolve' can also describe a person or object moving in a circular or rotational manner. For instance, dancers on a stage may revolve around each other during a performance.

Another meaning of 'revolve' is to depend or be contingent on something. This can be seen when decisions or actions revolve around certain factors or considerations.

'Revolve' can be used to indicate a recurring pattern or cycle. This can refer to the seasonal changes that revolve throughout the year or the regular rotation of shifts in a work schedule.

Overall, the verb 'revolve' encompasses various ideas of circular movement, rotation, repetition, centrality, and dependency in both concrete and abstract contexts.

Example sentences containing revolve

1. The Earth and other planets revolve around the sun.
2. The carousel makes the colorful horses revolve in a circular motion.
3. The dancers gracefully revolve on the dance floor.
4. The fan blades revolve rapidly, creating a cooling breeze.
5. The moon appears to revolve around the Earth due to gravitational forces.
6. The gears in the clockwork mechanism revolve, keeping time.

History and etymology of revolve

The verb 'revolve' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'revolvere,' which combines 're-' meaning 'back' or 'again' and 'volvere' meaning 'to turn.' This etymology reflects the fundamental notion of 'revolve' as the action of moving in a circular or orbital path around a central point or axis, often returning to a starting point. It conveys the idea of something that turns or goes around repeatedly. When applied to celestial bodies like planets orbiting the sun, or objects spinning on an axis, the word 'revolve' highlights the cyclical nature of their movements. Hence, the etymology of 'revolve' beautifully captures the essence of circular motion and repetition around a central point or axis, whether in celestial mechanics or everyday activities.

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Further usage examples of revolve

1. The seasons revolve in a cycle, with each one bringing its unique characteristics.
2. The planets in our solar system revolve in elliptical orbits.
3. The satellite dish needs to be adjusted to revolve towards the communication satellite.
4. The windmill's blades revolve with the power of the wind, generating electricity.
5. The gears in the engine revolve, transferring power to the wheels.
6. The Earth's rotation causes the stars to appear to revolve around us.
7. The project's success will revolve around effective teamwork and collaboration.
8. The bicycle pedals revolve when the rider applies pressure.
9. The merry-go-round makes the children giggle as they revolve on their favorite animals.
10. The satellite dish needs to revolve to maintain a strong signal reception.
11. The door handle is designed to revolve, allowing for easy opening and closing.
12. The Earth's rotation causes day and night to revolve.
13. The planets in our solar system revolve around the sun.
14. The carousel makes the horses revolve gracefully.
15. The moon appears to revolve around the Earth.
16. The gears in the machine slowly begin to revolve.
17. Time seems to revolve in an endless cycle.
18. The satellite will revolve in orbit for years.
19. Her thoughts constantly revolve around her goals.
20. The ceiling fan blades silently revolve overhead.
21. The dancers gracefully revolve on the ballroom floor.