pendulum

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   an apparatus consisting of an object mounted so that it swings freely under the influence of gravity

2. 2
   noun

   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. 3
   noun

   A lamp, etc. suspended from a ceiling.

4. 4
   noun

   A watch's guard-ring by which it is attached to a chain.

Etymology

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