revolve

[ ri-volv ]

verb (used without object)

, re·volved, re·volv·ing.

1. to move in a circular or curving course or orbit:

   The earth revolves around the sun.

   Synonyms: circle, orbit

2. to turn around or rotate, as on an axis:

   The wheel revolves slowly.

3. to proceed or occur in a round or cycle; come around again in the process of time; recur.
4. to be revolved in the mind.
5. to focus or center on.

verb (used with object)

, re·volved, re·volv·ing.

1. to cause to turn around, as on an axis.
2. to cause to move in a circular or curving course, as about a central point.
3. to think about; consider.

   Synonyms: study, ponder

revolve

/ rɪˈvɒlv /

verb

1. to move or cause to move around a centre or axis; rotate
2. intr to occur periodically or in cycles
3. to consider or be considered
4. intr; foll by around or about to be centred or focused (upon)

   Juliet's thoughts revolved around Romeo

noun

1. theatre a circular section of a stage that can be rotated by electric power to provide a scene change

Derived Forms

• reˈvolvable, adjective
• reˈvolvably, adverb

Other Words From

• re·volva·ble adjective
• re·volva·bly adverb
• unre·volved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of revolve¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English revolven, from Latin revolvere “to roll back,” equivalent to re- re- + volvere “to roll, turn round”

Word History and Origins

Origin of revolve¹

C14: from Latin revolvere , from re- + volvere to roll, wind

Synonym Study

See turn.

Example Sentences

A so-called story trust meets weekly to discuss ideas, and themes revolve around milestones and lessons that families experience on a regular basis.

From Los Angeles Times

"Our main objections to data centres revolve around their potential negative impacts on our climate, their sustainability, and local infrastructure," says Tony Lowes of Friends of the Irish Environment.

From BBC

And I have to just revolve around whatever fits for everyone else.’

From Los Angeles Times

But several people with knowledge of the company said the concerns revolve around alleged mismanagement by Nunes.

From Salon

L’Agence has a large wholesale presence and is carried at more than 300 retailers worldwide, including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Revolve.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• rotate
• whirl