Undulation: meaning, definitions and examples

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undulation

[ˌʌndjʊˈleɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in nature

A series of wavelike bends, curves, or elevations.

Synonyms

ripple, swell, wave.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
undulation	Often used in a more scientific or formal context to describe a smooth, wavelike motion or form in various fields such as physics, biology, and geology. The undulation of the snake's movement was mesmerizing. The undulation of the hills created a picturesque landscape.
wave	A versatile term that can describe the waves in the ocean, sound waves, or even waves of emotion. It's the most general term among these and can be used in many different contexts. The children played in the waves at the beach. She felt a wave of relief wash over her after hearing the good news.
swell	Used to describe larger, often more powerful waves, especially in the context of the ocean. It can also refer to an increase in size or volume over time. The swell of the ocean made it difficult for boats to navigate. There was a swelling feeling of excitement in the crowd.
ripple	Typically describes small waves or disturbances on a surface, often caused by something dropping into or moving through water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe an effect that spreads outward from a source. She watched as the stone created ripples in the pond. The news of the scandal sent ripples through the community.

Examples of usage

The undulation of the ocean waves was mesmerizing to watch.
The undulation of the sand dunes in the desert creates a beautiful landscape.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in movement

A flowing up and down movement like that of waves.

Synonyms

flowing motion, rippling motion, undulating movement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
undulation	Usually used in scientific or technical contexts to describe a smooth, wave-like motion or pattern. It can refer to physical waves, sound waves, or even patterns in visual arts. The scientist studied the undulation of the desert sands. The undulation in the graph shows the change in frequency.
undulating movement	Used to describe a smooth, wavy motion. It can be applied to liquids, landforms, or even large groups of people moving in sync. It has a broader and more poetic use compared to 'undulation'. The dancers made an undulating movement across the stage. The hills had an undulating movement in the landscape.
rippling motion	Used to indicate a motion that resembles small waves moving across the surface. Frequently applied to water surfaces but can also describe effects like sound or light waves. The stone created a rippling motion when it hit the water. The market showed a rippling motion after the announcement.
flowing motion	Often used to describe the smooth and continuous movement of liquids or objects that resemble the flow of water. Common in descriptions of natural phenomena and graceful movements. The river's flowing motion was relaxing to watch. Her dance had a graceful, flowing motion.

Examples of usage

The undulation of the dancer's body added grace to her performance.
The undulation of the snake as it slithered across the ground was hypnotic.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'undulatio', meaning 'to wave', connected to 'unda', which means 'wave'.
It was first used in English in the late 17th century, initially describing patterns in art and science.
Over time, the term has expanded to describe various natural movements, from ocean waves to sound waves.

Science

In physics, undulation is crucial in describing waves, where energy moves through a medium without permanent displacement.
Sound waves can be described as undulatory, traveling through the air in waves, allowing us to hear music and speech.
In biology, many living organisms, like snakes and some fish, use undulatory movement to navigate through water or land.

Art

Artists often utilize undulation to convey motion and fluidity in paintings, creating a dynamic sense of rhythm.
The Baroque art movement is particularly known for its use of undulating forms, giving life to sculptures and architecture.
In dance, movements that exhibit undulation can express grace and emotion, enhancing the overall storytelling.

Nature

Undulation can be seen in various natural formations, like rolling hills or waves in the ocean, showcasing the earth's beauty.
In botany, certain plants exhibit undulatory movements as they grow towards light sources, a process known as phototropism.
Animal locomotion often involves undulatory patterns, especially in creatures like eels and worms, aiding in their movement.

Translations

Translations of the word "undulation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ondulação

🇮🇳 लहराना

🇩🇪 Wellenbewegung

🇮🇩 gelombang

🇺🇦 хвилювання

🇵🇱 falowanie

🇯🇵 波動

🇫🇷 ondulation

🇪🇸 ondulación

🇹🇷 dalgalanma

🇰🇷 파동

🇸🇦 تموج

🇨🇿 vlnění

🇸🇰 vlnenie

🇨🇳 波动

🇸🇮 valovanje

🇮🇸 bylgjugangur

🇰🇿 толқындану

🇬🇪 ტალღობა

🇦🇿 dalğalanma

🇲🇽 ondulación

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,124, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
29121 requite
29122 entrancing
29123 cicatrix
29124 undulation
29125 dwelled
29126 lanthanide
29127 typographic
...