pendulum Definition

pendulum
noun pendulums

1. physics.
A weight, suspended from a fixed point, that swings freely back and forth through a small angle with simple harmonic motion.
2. A swinging lever used to regulate the movement of a clock.
3. Anything that undergoes obvious and regular shifts or reversals in direction, attitude, opinion, etc.

Derivative: pendular
adj

Relating to or like a pendulum.

Etymology: 17c: Latin, neuter of pendulus hanging.