English Reference

Word

rotational

Phoneticsro·ta·tion·al

US/ɹoʊˈteɪʃənəɫ/

UK/ɹəʊtˈeɪʃənəl/

Definition

adj. relating to the act of spinning or turning around a center point. It can also describe things that happen in a regular order or turn.

adj. relating to or caused by the act of turning around an axis; also describes a system where tasks or roles are shared in a fixed sequence.

Examples

“The machine uses a rotational movement to mix the paint.”

“The staff works on a rotational basis to ensure that someone is always available during the weekend.”

“Engineers must calculate the rotational speed of the turbine to prevent structural failure caused by excessive centrifugal force during peak operation.”

Examples

simple

“The machine uses a rotational movement to mix the paint.”

contextual

“The staff works on a rotational basis to ensure that someone is always available during the weekend.”

complex

“Engineers must calculate the rotational speed of the turbine to prevent structural failure caused by excessive centrifugal force during peak operation.”

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often appears in technical, mechanical, or organizational contexts.

Real-World Examples

“The crust then spins up abruptly, producing the sudden increase in rotational frequency observed as a glitch.”
Phys.org · 6 Sept 2026

Word family

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/rotational

English Reference