Rolling: meaning, definitions and examples

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rolling

[ˈroʊlɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

machine

The action or process of rolling, such as the rolling of a vehicle or the rolling of a ball.

Synonyms

rotation, spinning, turning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rolling	This term is often used when an object moves smoothly along a surface, typically on wheels or by revolving around its axis. The ball kept rolling down the hill He was rolling the dough for the pizza
turning	Refers to changing direction or orientation, can be both smooth or abrupt. It can also describe the action of revolving around an axis. She is turning the pages of the book The car was turning left
spinning	Implies rapid turning around a central point, often used for things like tops, wheels, or in gymnastics. The top is spinning quickly She was spinning around, enjoying the music

Word

Description / Examples

rolling

This term is often used when an object moves smoothly along a surface, typically on wheels or by revolving around its axis.

The ball kept rolling down the hill
He was rolling the dough for the pizza

turning

Refers to changing direction or orientation, can be both smooth or abrupt. It can also describe the action of revolving around an axis.

She is turning the pages of the book
The car was turning left

spinning

Implies rapid turning around a central point, often used for things like tops, wheels, or in gymnastics.

The top is spinning quickly
She was spinning around, enjoying the music

Examples of usage

The rolling of the waves was mesmerizing.
The rolling of the dice determined the outcome.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

food

A small piece of food rolled into a cylindrical shape, often served as a snack or dessert.

Synonyms

coil, twist, wrap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rolling	Use this term when describing the action of moving something along a surface by turning it over and over. Often used for objects with wheels or round shapes. She enjoyed rolling down the grassy hill The kid was busy rolling the toy car back and forth
wrap	Used when covering something completely with a material or enclosing something by folding or winding. Commonly used for gifts or protective coverings. She decided to wrap the birthday present in colorful paper He wrapped the scarf around his neck
twist	Ideal for describing the action of turning something around in a circular motion, often to change its shape or position. Can imply a degree of force. She twisted the cap off the bottle The dancer's body twisted gracefully
coil	Best used when referring to winding something into several loops or turns. Commonly used for wires, springs, or snakes. He coiled the rope neatly after finishing the work The snake coiled around the tree branch

Examples of usage

Sushi is made by rolling fish and rice in seaweed.
She enjoys eating cinnamon rolls for breakfast.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

action

To move by turning over and over on an axis or an imagined axis.

Synonyms

revolve, spin, turn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rolling	Often used to describe the motion of an object moving smoothly over a surface or the act of repeatedly turning over in a circular manner. The ball kept rolling down the hill. She was rolling the dough for the bread.
turn	A general term often used to indicate changing direction or rotating to a certain angle, less specific about the manner or speed of rotation. You need to turn left at the next corner. She turned the knob to open the door.
revolve	Generally used for describing an object moving in a circle around a central point or axis. The Earth revolves around the Sun. The conversation seemed to revolve around the same topic.
spin	Commonly used to describe something turning around quickly, often used for rapid or continuous circular motion. The dancer can spin very fast. He felt dizzy after spinning in circles.

Examples of usage

He rolled the ball across the floor.
She rolled her eyes in exasperation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'rolling' comes from the Old English word 'rollian', which means to turn or revolve.
It has roots in the Latin word 'rotundus', which means round, showing the connection to circular movement.
The term has been in use since the medieval period, showcasing how language evolves yet retains core meanings.

Physics

Rolling is a type of motion that differs from sliding; rolling involves an object turning over itself on a surface.
The concept of inertia explains why a rolling object continues to move until a force, like friction, stops it.
In the case of a wheel, the rolling motion is more efficient and requires less energy compared to sliding, which can create more friction.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'keep on rolling' is often associated with perseverance and moving forward despite challenges, featured in many songs.
Roller coasters were invented in the early 19th century and have become a major amusement park attraction, making 'rolling' thrilling!
'Rolling' is also a term used in slang for various recreational activities, emphasizing enjoyment and continued action.

Sports

In bowling, players aim to roll balls down a lane to knock down pins, combining skill and strategy.
Rolling stones is often used in reference to the famous rock band, reflecting a lifestyle of freedom and constant movement.
In many sports, such as gymnastics, rolling techniques are used to perform acrobatic movements safely.

Geography

Rolling hills are a common topographical feature, indicating landforms that have gentle slopes and create a picturesque landscape.
The Movement of Earth's tectonic plates can also be described as rolling motions, important in understanding earthquakes.
In certain cultures, rolling foods such as sushi or spring rolls are significant culinary practices, symbolizing sharing and community.

Translations

Translations of the word "rolling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rolando

🇮🇳 रोलिंग

🇩🇪 rollend

🇮🇩 bergulir

🇺🇦 котіння

🇵🇱 toczący się

🇯🇵 転がる

🇫🇷 roulant

🇪🇸 rodando

🇹🇷 yuvarlanma

🇰🇷 구르다

🇸🇦 متدحرج

🇨🇿 kutálení

🇸🇰 rolovanie

🇨🇳 滚动

🇸🇮 kotaljenje

🇮🇸 rúlla

🇰🇿 домалау

🇬🇪 გორვა

🇦🇿 yuvarlanma

🇲🇽 rodando

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,838, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3835 string
3836 loaded
3837 bacteria
3838 rolling
3839 mirror
3840 occasional
3841 insufficient
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