1. a slight irregular motion of Earth’s axis that causes small changes in the positions of celestial objects
Usage: astronomy
2. a nodding or oscillating movement, especially of a plant part in response to stimuli
Usage: botany

Examples

• Astronomers must account for nutation when making precise measurements of star positions.
• The nutation of Earth’s axis occurs over an 18.6-year cycle.
• Scientists observed the nutation of the sunflower as it tracked the sun’s movement.
• The plant’s nutation helped it find the optimal position for photosynthesis.
• Nutation affects the accuracy of satellite navigation systems.
• The vine showed clear nutation as it searched for a support structure.