nutation
/njuːˈteɪʃən/
noun
- A slow, rhythmic nodding or swaying motion, especially of a plant stem or part of a plant.
- The nutation of the vine was visible as it searched for support.
- Gardeners often observe nutation in young sunflowers as they track the sun.
- The nutation of the bean plant helped it climb the trellis.
- A slight, periodic wobble in the axis of a rotating object, such as a spinning top or a celestial body.
- The spinning top showed a small nutation before it settled into steady rotation.
- Nutation in a gyroscope can affect the accuracy of instruments.
- Astronomers measure the nutation of Earth's axis to improve navigation systems.
Synonyms