pendulum

1. A body suspended from a fixed support so that it swings freely back and forth under the influence of gravity, commonly used to regulate various devices such as clocks.
2. (broadly) A body suspended from a fixed support so that it swings freely back and forth under the influence of gravity, commonly used to regulate various devices such as clocks.
3. A lamp, etc. suspended from a ceiling.
4. A watch's guard-ring by which it is attached to a chain.

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈpɛnd͡ʒələm/

Etymology

Borrowed from the neuter of Latin pendulus (“hanging”).

Synonyms

swing

oscillator

pendant

pendular

perpendicular

pendulant

clock pendulum

oscillating body

gravity pendulum

bob

vibrating body

clock