saltatory

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   relating to, adapted for, or characterized by leaping

   The grouse used a saltatory display to attract nearby females.

2. 2
   adj

   proceeding in abrupt jumps or stages rather than through smooth, continuous change

   Saltatory conduction allows an electrical impulse to jump between gaps in a myelinated nerve fiber.

From Latin saltatorius ("of dancing or leaping"), from saltare ("to dance, jump"), + English -y. Scientific uses preserve the image of movement by jumps, including jumping animals and nerve impulses that pass between nodes.

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