# fluctuation

/ˌfɫəktʃuˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /flˌʌktʃuːˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fluctuation
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a change that moves up and down over time, like the price of a product or the weather. It describes something that is not steady or constant.

For teachers: a change that varies between different levels or states over a period of time. Often refers to economic or environmental variables that experience periodic rises and falls.

## Examples

- The price of gas has seen a lot of fluctuation this year.
- Market fluctuation is a normal part of investing, but sudden drops can cause many people to lose their confidence.
- Economists are closely monitoring the fluctuation in consumer spending to determine whether the current recovery is sustainable or merely a temporary rebound.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.