Rippling: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a gentle, wave-like motion, often on a surface of water or something resembling water.

• The lake's surface was rippling gently in the breeze.
• Her voice sent rippling waves of laughter through the crowd.

Used to describe a smooth, wavy motion, often for physical landscapes, fabrics, or abstract motions.

• The hills began to undulate as far as the eye could see.
• The dancer's movements seemed to undulate to the music.

Used to describe regular, rhythmic throbbing or beating, often used for heartbeats, music, or lights.

• Her heart began to pulsate rapidly as she saw the results.
• The nightclub was filled with pulsating lights.

Used to describe a rapid back-and-forth motion, often at a small scale, and typically for mechanical objects or phones.

• The phone started to vibrate in her pocket.
• His voice began to vibrate with emotion.

Commonly used to describe a smooth, flowing motion on the surface, especially of water or fabric. It gives the impression of continuous, gentle, small waves.

• The stone thrown into the pond caused rippling patterns to form on the surface.
• The wind was gently rippling through the long grass.

A small wave on the surface of a liquid. It implies a more diminutive and gentle movement than 'wave'.

• Small wavelets lapped at the edge of the lake.
• The light breeze created delicate wavelets on the pond.

Describes a wavelike motion or shape, typically used in more formal or technical contexts. It can refer not only to water but also landscapes or other surfaces.

• The undulation of the hills was a beautiful sight from the top of the viewpoint.
• Undulations in the carpet caused several people to trip.

Refers to a gradual increase in intensity, volume, or size. Often used in the context of the sea, emotion, or sound. Can have a slightly more powerful connotation than 'rippling'.

• The sea began to swell, indicating an approaching storm.
• His heart swelled with pride as he watched his daughter graduate.