saltation

Plural: saltations

Noun

• (geology) the leaping movement of sand or soil particles as they are transported in a fluid medium over an uneven surface
• (genetics) a mutation that drastically changes the phenotype of an organism or species
• an abrupt transition
• taking a series of rhythmical steps (and movements) in time to music
• a light, self-propelled movement upwards or forwards
• A leap, jump or dance.
• The act of jumping, or hopping, using all legs simultaneously (although the contribution to motion is typically made chiefly by the hind legs).
• Beating or palpitation.
• A sudden change from one generation to the next; a mutation.
• Any abrupt transition.
• The transport of loose particles by a fluid (such as wind or flowing water).

Examples

• the saltation of the great artery

Synonyms

bounce, bound, dance, dancing, jump, leap, leaping, spring, terpsichore

Related Words

saltate, saltatory