Pendulum

usgb/ˈpendʒələm/
noun

A weight hung from a fixed point so that it swings freely back and forth.

The pendulum in the clock was swinging side to side.
Visual representation of "pendulum" - A weight hung from a fixed point so that it swings freely back and forth

Often appears as...

  • swinging pendulum
  • pendulum clock
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pendulum"
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Physical Motion

Understand pendulum as representing a specific type of movement found in clocks or experiments.

Illustration for Physical Motion
The science teacher demonstrated how a pendulum moves.
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Timekeeper

Pendulums are key in clocks to keep time; they help measure seconds accurately.

Illustration for Timekeeper
Before digital clocks, a pendulum was crucial for keeping time.
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Metaphorical Use

Pendulum can be a metaphor for changes in opinions or situations, swinging from one extreme to another.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The political pendulum has swung to the left in recent years.
Visual representation of the word "Pendulum"

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