fluctuate
verb (used without object)
to change continually; shift back and forth; vary irregularly.
have fluctuated
-
present perfectof fluctuate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Arrivals have fluctuated over the decades, but plunged sharply during the Covid pandemic when many nations shut their borders.
From Barron's ● Sep. 28, 2026
Energy prices have fluctuated since the conflict started on 28 February as traders reacted to disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
From BBC ● Aug. 3, 2026
Vehicle thefts have fluctuated during Bianco’s tenure but have been on the decline since 2021, according to the state data.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 9, 2026
His grades have fluctuated wildly; he made the honor roll when the iPad was briefly removed, only to slide back as his school-day viewing surged to as much as 240 minutes in a single day.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 29, 2026
Inaccurate data from countries with high incidences of MDR have made it difficult for pharmaceutical companies to meet demand for these drugs consistently, and therefore market prices have fluctuated.
From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French
