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nutate

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /nʌˈteɪt/

KK: /nʌˈteɪt/

verb
Definition

To move or sway back and forth in a circular motion.


Example

The planet's axis nutates over time, causing changes in its orientation.


Tense Forms

Past: nutated

Past Participle: nutated


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever noticed how some trees nutate in the wind?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's fascinating to watch them sway back and forth.
Sloth A
I wonder if they do that to keep their roots strong.
Sloth B
That makes sense — it's like they're adapting to their environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
oscillate
wobble
sway
Antonyms
stabilize
steady
remain
Root Explanation

Nutate → It is formed from "nutare" (meaning to sway or to nod) in Latin. The word describes the action of swaying or nodding, particularly in reference to the movement of an axis or orbit.

Memory Tip

Imagine a planet that 'nods' or 'sways' as it moves through space — that's what nutate means.

Visually Confused Words
rutate
nutter
nutted
nudate
notate
mutate
unmutated
tate
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