revolve

verb re·volve \ri-ˈvälv, -ˈvȯlv also -ˈväv or -ˈvȯv\

: to turn around a center point or line

re·volvedre·volv·ing

Full Definition of REVOLVE

transitive verb

: to turn over at length in the mind : ponder <revolve a scheme>

a obsolete : to cause to go round in an orbit

b : rotate 1

intransitive verb

: recur

a : to ponder something

b : to remain under consideration <ideas revolved in his mind>

a : to move in a curved path round a center or axis

b : to turn or roll round on an axis

: to have or come to a specified focus : center —usually used with around <the dispute revolved around wages>

— re·volv·able \-ˈväl-və-bəl, -ˈvȯl- also -ˈvä-və- or -ˈvȯ-və-\ adjective

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Origin of REVOLVE

Middle English, from Latin revolvere to roll back, cause to return, from re- + volvere to roll — more at voluble

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to REVOLVE

Synonyms: pivot, turn, roll, rotate, spin, swing, swirl, swivel, twirl, twist, wheel, whirl

REVOLVABLE Defined for Kids

revolve

verb re·volve \ri-ˈvälv, -ˈvȯlv\

re·volvedre·volv·ing

Definition of REVOLVE for Kids

: to move in an orbit <Planets revolve around the sun.>

: rotate 1

Word Root of REVOLVE

The Latin word volvere, meaning “to roll” or “to turn around,” gives us the root volv. Words from the Latin volvere have something to do with turning. To revolve is to turn in circles or travel on a circular path. To evolve, or grow or develop out of something else, is to unroll from a source. To involve, or include, is to roll someone into a situation.