Synonyms for

Pendulum

Verb / ˈpendʒʌlʌm / Another word for pendulum — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A pendulum is a weight hung from a fixed point so that it can swing freely back and forth.

Synonyms & similar words

swinger oscillator bob counterweight metronome tick-tock timekeeper timepiece clock time beat rhythm movement vibration swing pendulate sway wigwag vacillate

Synonyms by register

Formal

oscillator swinger

Informal

swinger

Literary

metronome balance

Antonyms

stillness stasis immobility equilibrium halt cessation

Common collocations

  • swinging pendulum
  • pendulum clock
  • pendulum motion
  • pendulum effect
  • pendulum swings
  • simple pendulum
  • energy of a pendulum

Word family

noun pendulum
verb pendulate
adjective pendulous

Usage note

The word 'pendulum' primarily refers to a weight suspended from a pivot so that it can swing freely. Figuratively, it often describes a situation that fluctuates between two extremes.

Example sentences

  1. The pendulum on the grandfather clock swung back and forth.
  2. The scientist used a pendulum to measure the force of gravity.
  3. The metronome's pendulum helped the musician keep time.
  4. The swing on the playground is a type of pendulum.
  5. The pendulum of the wrecking ball swung back and forth as it demolished the building.

Quotes

  • The pendulum of the clock swings from side to side, marking the seconds which die so soon. - William Butler Yeats
  • Life is like a pendulum. It swings back and forth. - Unknown
  • A pendulum clock ticks off the seconds of our lives. - Unknown

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