Definition of: revolve

(ri·volv′) v. ·volved, ·volv·ing v.i.
1. To move in an orbit about a center; move in a circle.
2. To rotate.
3. To move in cycles; recur periodically.
—v.t.
4. To cause to move in a circle or orbit.
5. To cause to rotate.
6. To turn over mentally; consider; ponder. [<L revolvere <re- back + volvere roll, turn]
—re·volv′a·ble adjective
—re·volv′ing adjective Synonyms: roll, rotate, turn. Any round body rolls which continuously touches with successive portions of its surface successive portions of another surface; a wagon wheel rolls along the ground. To rotate is said of a body that has a circular motion about its own center or axis; to revolve is said of a body that moves about a center outside of itself. A revolving body may also either rotate or roll at the same time; the earth revolves around the sun, and rotates on its own axis. Any object that is in contact with or connected with a rolling body is often said to roll; as, The car rolls smoothly along the track. Objects whose motion approximates or suggests a rotary motion along a supporting surface are also said to roll; as, Ocean waves roll in upon the shore. Antonyms: bind, chafe, grind, slide, slip, stick.