fluctuation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a wave motion
    • the fluctuations of the sea
  2. noun an instance of change; the rate or magnitude of change
    variation.
  3. noun the quality of being unsteady and subject to changes
    wavering.
    • he kept a record of price fluctuations

WordNet

Fluc`tu*a"tion noun
Etymology
L. fluctuatio; cf. F. fluctuation.
Definitions
  1. A motion like that of waves; a moving in this and that direction; as, the fluctuations of the sea.
  2. A wavering; unsteadiness; as, fluctuations of opinion; fluctuations of prices.
  3. (Med.) The motion or undulation of a fluid collected in a natural or artifical cavity, which is felt when it is subjected to pressure or percussion. Dunglison.

Webster 1913