undulate

[ verb uhn-juh-leyt, uhn-dyuh-, -duh-; adjective uhn-juh-lit, -leyt, uhn-dyuh-, -duh- ]

verb (used without object)

, un·du·lat·ed, un·du·lat·ing.

1. to move with a sinuous or wavelike motion; display a smooth rising-and-falling or side-to-side alternation of movement:

   The flag undulates in the breeze.

2. to have a wavy form or surface; bend with successive curves in alternate directions.
3. (of a sound) to rise and fall in pitch:

   the wail of a siren undulating in the distance.

verb (used with object)

, un·du·lat·ed, un·du·lat·ing.

1. to cause to move in waves.
2. to give a wavy form to.

adjective

1. Also un·du·lat·ed. having a wavelike or rippled form, surface, edge, etc.; wavy.

undulate

/ ˈʌndjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. to move or cause to move in waves or as if in waves
2. to have or provide with a wavy form or appearance

adjective

1. having a wavy or rippled appearance, margin, or form

   an undulate leaf

Derived Forms

• ˈunduˌlator, noun

Other Words From

• un·du·la·tor noun
• non·un·du·late adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of undulate¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from Latin undulātus waved, equivalent to und(a) “wave” + -ul(a) -ule + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of undulate¹

C17: from Latin undulātus, from unda a wave

Example Sentences

This led to widespread and false conspiracy theories in states like Michigan about the undulating vote count.

From Los Angeles Times

We cross a vast countryside - scrub and grassland plains interspersed with views of lush farms – and pass a meandering river, craggy terrain and undulating hills.

From BBC

Sit on the mattress’ edge and it wobbles and undulates.

From Los Angeles Times

Drying vents affixed to massive undulating columns blast air until every rivulet of water disappears.

From Salon

The only thing that could roust me from my peaceful slumber was the most grotesque vision imaginable: an undulating river of red lights in front of me.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• billow
• wobble