saltate

intransitive verb

sal·​tate
ˈsalˌtāt,
ˈsȯl-
-ed/-ing/-s
1
: to move by jumps or leaps
2
: to undergo or exhibit evolutionary saltation

Word History

Etymology

Latin saltatus, past participle of saltare to jump, leap, dance

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near saltate

Cite this Entry

“Saltate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saltate. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!