fluctuation
noun
fluc·tu·a·tion
ˌflək-chə-ˈwā-shən 
-chü-ˈā-
plural fluctuations
: an act or instance of fluctuating : an irregular shifting back and forth or up and down in the level, strength, or value of something
Small fluctuations in prices are to be expected.
Some fluctuation in real estate values is not unusual.
North American species in general, having contended with blazing July days and frosty September nights as they evolved, are much more tolerant of temperature fluctuations than tropical species are.—
Jonathan Franzen
Examples of fluctuation in a Sentence
political instability that resulted in wild fluctuations in the overseas stock markets
Recent Examples on the Web
Weight fluctuations of 2 to 4 pounds are normal from day to day.
—Brandi Jones, Verywell Health, 12 Jan. 2026
Their role as a major political force has become more symbolic, but the impact of fluctuations in currency on their businesses is what led them to spark the protests that have since turned deadly.
—Mostafa Salem, CNN Money, 12 Jan. 2026
Garages are also more prone to moisture fluctuations, which can cause condensation and, in turn, lead to rusting or mold growth.
—Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026
Duration is a measurement of a bond’s price sensitivity to rate fluctuations, and issues with longer maturities tend to have greater duration.
—Sarah Min, CNBC, 11 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for fluctuation
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Cite this Entry
“Fluctuation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fluctuation. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
Medical Definition
fluctuation
noun
fluc·tu·a·tion
ˌflək-chə-ˈwā-shən
1
: a motion like that of waves
especially
: the wavelike motion of a fluid collected in a natural or artificial cavity of the body observed by palpation or percussion
2
a
: a slight and nonheritable variation
especially
: such a variation occurring in response to environmental factors
b
: recurrent and often more or less cyclic alteration (as of form, size, or color of a bodily part)
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