Rotating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”„
Add to dictionary

rotating

[หˆrษ™สŠteษชtษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mechanical

Moving or causing to move in a circle around an axis or center.

Synonyms

revolving, spinning, turning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
rotating

Typically used to describe the action of turning around an axis or center point. Often used in mechanical or scientific contexts.

  • The Earth is always rotating on its axis
  • The rotating blades of the helicopter create lift
turning

A general term for changing direction or orientation. Can be used in various contexts, from daily activities to mechanical movements.

  • Turn left at the next intersection
  • She is turning the pages of the book
spinning

Used to describe quick, often continuous circular motion. Can also be used colloquially to describe situations causing confusion or dizziness.

  • The child is spinning on the merry-go-round
  • All the new information made my head start spinning
revolving

Often used to describe something that moves in a circular path around a central point. Commonly found in contexts involving orbits, machinery, or doors.

  • The revolving door at the entrance of the hotel is very convenient
  • Planets are revolving around the sun

Examples of usage

  • The rotating blades of the wind turbine generate electricity.
  • The rotating drum of the washing machine helps to clean the clothes.
  • The rotating Earth causes day and night.
  • The rotating carousel at the amusement park is a popular attraction.
  • The rotating fan helps to circulate the air in the room.
Context #2 | Verb

job

Taking turns performing a job or task.

Synonyms

alternate, exchange, switch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
rotating

Used when something is turning around an axis or when duties are shifted in a regular, circular way.

  • The Earth is constantly rotating on its axis.
  • We have a rotating schedule for cleaning the kitchen.
alternate

Used when things take turns or occur in succession, one after the other.

  • We meet on alternate Mondays.
  • You should alternate your exercise routine to avoid injury.
switch

Used when you change from one thing to another, or when you swap two things. It can also refer to a device that turns something on or off.

  • Can we switch seats?
  • Press the switch to turn on the lights.
exchange

Used when two or more people give something and receive something else in return, often of roughly equal value.

  • Let's exchange gifts at the party.
  • They had a heated exchange of words.

Examples of usage

  • The employees are rotating shifts to cover all hours of operation.
  • We rotate the responsibility of taking out the trash each week.
  • Students rotate being the leader of the group project.
  • The doctors rotate on-call duties at the hospital.
  • The team members rotate positions during the game.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, rotating objects are influenced by centrifugal force, which pushes them outward.
  • The Earth takes about 24 hours to complete one full rotation on its axis, creating day and night.
  • The concept of rotation is crucial in understanding celestial movements, such as how planets orbit stars.

Pop Culture

  • Dance moves like the 'twist' or 'spin' are exciting forms of rotating in performance art.
  • In sports, athletes often rotate their bodies, like in gymnastics or figure skating, to create stunning visuals.
  • The popular toy fidget spinner is designed to rotate effortlessly on a central axis, becoming a viral sensation.

Technology

  • In engineering, rotating machinery is essential for various applications, from turbines to engines.
  • Data storage devices like hard drives use rotational motion to read and write information quickly.
  • Robotic arms often incorporate rotational joints to enhance their range of motion and flexibility.

Art

  • The art of kinetic sculpture often involves rotating elements, captivating audiences with movement.
  • Artists like Jean Tinguely create machines designed to rotate and produce art while moving.
  • In visual arts, rotating canvases can inspire different perspectives and creative insights.

Origin of 'rotating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'rotare', which means 'to turn'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, indicating circular motion.
  • The prefix 'ro-' relates to wheels, emphasizing movement and turning.

The word 'rotating' comes from the Latin word 'rotatus', which means 'turned round'. It has been used in English since the early 17th century. The concept of rotation has been fundamental in various fields such as mechanics, physics, and everyday life. The ability to rotate objects or tasks has been essential for efficiency and balance in many systems and activities.


See also: rotatingly, rotation, rotational.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,533 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.