Bobbing

Bobbing describes a repetitive, typically up-and-down or side-to-side, movement of something. This movement is often characterized by a floating or bouncing quality, frequently involving a partial submersion or a rhythmic oscillation. The object experiencing Bobbing might be light and easily moved by external forces like water currents, wind, or gravity, or it could be more substantial but still susceptible to a regular, often gentle, rise and fall. The action can apply to both animate and inanimate objects, and suggests an effortless or unrestrained motion. It can also be used to describe a quick, brief movement, like a head dipping down in a bow or a toy dancing up and down. The movement is often observed with floating objects on water.

Bobbing meaning with examples

• The fishing bobber Bobbing gently on the lake's surface was the only indication of the hidden fish beneath. It moved with the subtle currents, a patient dance of anticipation. I knew any second it would fully submerge and signal a bite. The anticipation made the time fly.
• Small boats were Bobbing up and down in the choppy harbor water. They danced against each other with each wave as the storm made the normally calm water unsafe. The wooden boats looked almost comical as they danced a jig against the crashing waves that grew.
• Children were playing in a pool and some were Bobbing around in the shallow end. Their laughter echoed as they splashed and played with each other. The sun shone brightly and warmed them up, and the splashing from their movements cooled them down.
• The sunflowers were Bobbing in the summer breeze as they waved. The petals were rustling as they took a slow dance for the day. The breeze was blowing and all day the flowers were Bobbing around in the breeze with little resistance.