Spanish Conversation · Level 89
60 words
Spanish word
pendular
Pronunciation
IPA/penduˈlaɾ/
Meaning
- adjectivelike a pendulum
Example
El movimiento pendular de la lámpara me relajó.
The movement of the lamp, like a pendulum, relaxed me.
More examples
El reloj pendular marcaba las horas con un sonido suave.
The pendulum clock marked the hours with a soft sound.
Core concept
Alternating back-and-forth movement between two states.
Common phrases
columpio pendular
pendulum swing
reloj pendular
pendulum clock
Similar words
oscilante: Oscillates in rhythmic swings or vibrations, moving forward-back or side-to-side.
alterno: Alternates in turn between states or positions in a regular sequence.
vacilante: Wavers with hesitant, unsteady motion and imperfect balance.
Definition in Spanish
Que indica un movimiento periódico de ida y vuelta, tanto literal (como un péndulo) como figurado.
Word origin
From Latin pendere 'to hang' via pendulum, forming a Spanish adjective that applies to both literal swinging motion and metaphorical alternation.
Usage tips
- When used figuratively, pendular often describes repeated alternation of feelings or positions, so speakers often prefer clearer phrases like alterna entre or cambia continuamente.