librate

[ lahy-breyt ]

verb (used without object)

, li·brat·ed, li·brat·ing.

1. to oscillate or move from side to side or between two points.
2. to remain poised or balanced.

librate

/ ˈlaɪbreɪt; ˈlaɪbrətərɪ; -trɪ /

verb

1. to oscillate or waver
2. to hover or be balanced

Derived Forms

• libratory, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of librate¹

First recorded in 1615–25; from Latin lībrātus, past participle of lībrāre “to balance, make level, bring to equilibrium”; Libra, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of librate¹

C17: back formation from libration

Example Sentences

He proceeded to see if by making the planet librate, or the plane of its orbit tilt up and down, anything could be done.

From Project Gutenberg

In this epicycle he was not supposed to revolve, but to librate, or move up and down in its diameter.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• fluctuate
• lurch
• seesaw
• teeter
• vacillate
• waver
• wobble