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Intermediate Dictionary
       

ro·tate

rotate

 
 
pronunciation:
ro teIt
features:
Language Note, Word Builder, Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: verb
inflections: rotates, rotating, rotated
definition 1: to cause to turn around on an axis.
I rotated the globe to find South America.
synonyms:
roll, spin, turn, wheel
similar words:
circle, pivot, reel, swivel, twirl, twist, whirl, wind
definition 2: to replace according to planned cycles.
The coach rotated the players to give everyone a chance to play.
similar words:
stagger, switch
definition 3: to turn on or around a fixed point.
Spin the top to make it rotate.
synonyms:
revolve, roll
similar words:
circle, pivot, spin, swivel, twirl, whirl
definition 4: to change in a certain order; take turns.
The nurses on duty rotated every eight hours.
synonyms:
alternate
similar words:
proceed, progress, take turns
derivation: rotatable (adj.)
Language Note
Rotate and revolve are often confused. Both of these words describe the motion of Earth and other planets, moons, and stars.
Rotate means to spin around an axis.
Earth rotates completely in about 24 hours. Each rotation is one day.
Revolve means to travel in a curved path around a central object.
Earth revolves around the sun in about 365.25 days. Each revolution is one year.
Word Builder: rotate +
  • rotating:
    spinning; turning on a fixed point.
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