Fluctuate
/ˈflʌk.tʃu.eɪt/noun
To rise and fall irregularly in number or amount.
Did you know?The root of 'fluctuate' is linked to 'flux', meaning flow—reminding us of the ever-changing nature of our lives and fortunes!
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰleu-
“to flow, swell, or be in motion.”
Latin
Latin
fluctuare
“to flow or wave, to fluctuate.”
Latin
Latin
fluctus
“a flowing, wave, or tide.”
Old French
Old French
fluctuer
“to fluctuate or sway.”
16th Century
English
fluctuate
“to rise and fall, to vary in level or intensity.”
Modern English
English
fluctuate
“to change or vary irregularly.”