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

Librate, lī′brāt, v.t. to poise: to balance.—v.i. to move slightly: to be poised.—n.

From Project Gutenberg

The standard of health varies in different persons, according to age, sex, and original constitution; and in the same person even, from week to week or from day to day, within certain limits it may shift and librate.

From Project Gutenberg

The only thing that has ever made them librate in their orbit was that foolish disgust I took at what I thought the consequences of democratic principles in America—but I judged by the abuse, not the use—and the little information I took the trouble of seeking came to me through twisted and tainted channels—and, in short, I was a rash boy & made a fool of myself.

From Project Gutenberg

Cause of librations.—That the moon should librate is by no means so remarkable a fact as that it should at all times turn very nearly the same face toward the earth.

From Project Gutenberg

In a general way a cable keeps a ship anchored in the same place, although wind and waves may cause it to "librate" about the anchor.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

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