fluctuation

[ fluhk-choo-ey-shuh n ]

/ ˌflʌk tʃuˈeɪ ʃən /

continual change from one point or condition to another.

wavelike motion; undulation.

Genetics. a body variation due to environmental factors and not inherited.

Origin of fluctuation

1400–50; late Middle English < Latin fluctuātiōn- (stem of fluctuātiō) a fluctuation, wavering. See fluctuate, -ion

non·fluc·tu·a·tion, noun

Side effects may include recession, job contraction, 401(k) bruising, recurrent Dow fluctuation, and IRA bleeding.

Up to a Point: PJ O’Rourke on Sochi and Senate Slackers |P. J. O’Rourke |February 7, 2014 |DAILY BEAST
His face, under the influence of this fluctuation of color, changed exceedingly, and improved in proportion as it changed.

Stories by American Authors, Volume 8 |Various
If a dilated stomach contains considerable fluid and the abdominal walls are yielding, fluctuation may be perceived by palpation.

A System of Practical Medicine By American Authors, Vol. II |Various
Such little incidents show us how taverns frequently denote the fluctuation of popular opinion.

Old Boston Taverns and Tavern Clubs |Samuel Adams Drake

Interest upon capital must be charged, and risk of fluctuation in the value of that which is to be received in payment added.

A Compilation of the Messages and Papers of the Presidents: Ulysses S. Grant |James D. Richardson
This fluctuation is of more importance over short periods than in the long run.

A Revision of the Treaty |John Maynard Keynes

fluctuation

/ (ˌflʌktjʊˈeɪʃən) /

constant change; vacillation; instability

undulation

a variation in an animal or plant that is determined by environment rather than heredity