# rotating

/ˈɹoʊˌteɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹəʊtˈeɪtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rotating
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. turning in a circle

verb · CEFR B1

turning around a central point or axis.

For teachers: moving or causing to move in a circle around an axis or centre.

- The fan was rotating quickly, making a soft humming sound in the room.
- By rotating the dial slowly, the technician was able to calibrate the sensor with extreme precision.

### 2. spinning physically

adjective · CEFR B2

describing something that is currently spinning or turning.

For teachers: undergoing physical rotation around an axis.

- Keep your fingers away from the rotating blades of the machine.
- The observatory features a rotating dome that allows the telescope to track celestial objects across the night sky.

### 3. taking turns

adjective · CEFR B2

happening in a regular order where people or things take turns.

For teachers: proceeding in a regular, recurring sequence or taking turns.

- The students have a rotating schedule for cleaning the classroom.
- The hospital staff operates on a rotating shift basis to ensure that experienced nurses are available at all hours of the night.

## Examples

- The earth is rotating on its axis.
- The hospital staff are rotating shifts to ensure that everyone gets a weekend off each month.
- By rotating the crops every season, the farmers ensure the soil remains nutrient-rich and less susceptible to the specific pests that target a single plant variety.

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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.