fluc
tua
tion
1
the irregular or unpredictable variation in something over time, characterized by alternating changes
- The stock market experienced significant fluctuations last week.
- Temperature fluctuations make it hard to plan outdoor events.
- Energy prices are subject to frequent fluctuations.
- The patient's heart rate showed fluctuations during the night.
- Currency fluctuations affected the company's international profits.
Synonyms:
2
a specific occurrence or measurement of change in a quantity, often used to describe the size or rate of a shift
- The chart records every fluctuation in stock prices.
- Even small fluctuations can influence the overall trend.
- Sudden fluctuations in voltage can damage equipment.
- Economists study these fluctuations to forecast demand.
- Each fluctuation was noted at ten-minute intervals.
Synonyms:
3
a cyclical pattern of rising and falling levels in a variable, often resembling wave-like movement
- The graph shows a steady fluctuation between high and low water levels.
- Sound waves are formed by fluctuations in air pressure.
- The fluctuation of tides follows the lunar cycle.
- Population numbers show natural fluctuations over generations.
- The fluctuation of the signal indicated unstable transmission.