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Definitions

rotatory

[roh-tuh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] / ˈroʊ təˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i /
ADJECTIVE
revolving
Synonyms
STRONGEST
whirling
WEAK
circumgyratory circumrotatory circumvolutory gyral gyrational gyratory rotary rotational rotative trochilic veriginous vortical vorticose
ADJECTIVE
rotary
Synonyms
STRONG
spinning whirligig whirling
WEAK
encircling gyral gyratory revolving rotating rotational vertiginous vorticular

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

So, when it comes to rotating players, is it really any wonder that managers are increasingly choosing to use domestic cup competitions as rotatory playgrounds?

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

Their general nature is quite independent of the extent of that motion, whether it be merely vibratory through a small arc, or completely rotatory about the central axis.

From The Energy System of Matter A Deduction from Terrestrial Energy Phenomena by Weir, James

Following Stroke.—This is putting a rotatory motion on a ball, causing it to spin on a horizontal axis forwards instead of backwards.

From Hoyle's Games Modernized by Hoffmann, Louis

For the purpose of illustration, let it be assumed that the pendulum is an isolated and conservative system endowed with a definite amount of rotatory energy.

From The Energy System of Matter A Deduction from Terrestrial Energy Phenomena by Weir, James

I fasten a horizontal board in the frame RR of my rotatory apparatus, lie down upon the same with my right ear upon the board, and cause the apparatus to be uniformly rotated.

From Popular scientific lectures by Mach, Ernst