oscillation
n. C1 Advanced US //ˌɑsəˈɫeɪʃən// UK //ˌɒsɪlˈeɪʃən// os·cil·la·tion
n. the movement of something back and forth between two points or states. It is like a pendulum swinging or a sound wave moving through the air.
n. the repetitive variation, typically in time, of some measure about a central value or between two or more different states.
The pendulum shows a steady oscillation.
The scientist observed the rapid oscillation of the light beam as it passed through the glass prism.
The system's stability is compromised by the rapid oscillation of its internal variables, which eventually leads to a complete failure of the mechanical components.
From French oscillation, from Latin oscillatio, from Latin oscillo. By surface analysis, oscillate + -ion.