Synonyms for

Bob

Verb / bɑ:b / Another word for bob — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To move up and down quickly and lightly.

Synonyms & similar words

bobfloat bobsleigh curtsy bobber dock cork shilling tail britishshilling bobsled bobtail bounce jiggle dance wag nod sway rock jerk bobble wobble quiver flutter pulse throb pulsate pound beat drum vibrate oscillate

Synonyms by register

Formal

oscillate fluctuate sway

Informal

nod dip jiggle bounce

Literary

quiver tremble dance

Antonyms

remain stay still settle rest halt

Common collocations

  • bob up and down
  • bob your head
  • bob for apples
  • a gentle bob
  • a quick bob
  • bob along

Word family

noun bob
verb bob

Usage note

The verb 'bob' often implies a quick, repeated up-and-down motion. It can also refer to a hairstyle where hair is cut to chin length.

Example sentences

  1. The toy boat bobbed on the surface of the pond.
  2. Her hair bobbed as she walked.
  3. The fishing line bobbed in the water.
  4. The cork bobbed up and down in the bottle.
  5. The buoy bobbed in the waves.

Quotes

  • Life is like a camera, just focus on the good times, and the bad times will just bob up and down like a cork.
  • Like a cork bobbing in the ocean, we are pushed and pulled by the tides of life.
  • Hope is like a buoy bobbing in the ocean, keeping us afloat in troubled waters.

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