Pronunciation: [sɒltˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
The word "saltation" (/sælˈteɪʃən/) refers to movement by leaps or bounds. The spelling of this word is derived from the Latin term "saltare", meaning "to dance". The "s" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as an "s" sound, and the "a" is pronounced as a short "a" sound. The "l" in the middle is pronounced as an "l" sound, the "t" is a sharp "t" sound, the "a" is short again, and the final "tion" is pronounced as "shun".
Saltation is a term used primarily in the fields of geology and biology to describe a specific process or mode of movement. In geology, saltation refers to the movement of sediment particles in a fluid, such as water or air, where these particles are lifted and carried in short, quick jumps or bounces. This process is often observed in streams or rivers where bedload sediments, such as sand or gravel, are transported in a discontinuous manner due to their relatively larger size and weight. Saltation is an important mechanism in the erosion and deposition of sediment in various environments.
In biology, saltation refers to a sudden, significant change or leap in the evolutionary process. It suggests that major evolutionary developments can occur rapidly rather than gradually. This concept, proposed by certain scientists such as Richard Goldschmidt, challenges the idea of gradualism in evolution by suggesting that new species or characteristics can arise through sudden mutations or changes in the genetic material. However, this view is not widely accepted in the scientific community.
The term saltation is derived from the Latin word "saltus" which means "leap" or "jump." It emphasizes the notion of discontinuous movement or change, whether it be in the geological or biological context.
Dancing, leaping.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A leaping or dancing; palpitation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "saltation" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin verb "saltare", which means "to jump" or "to leap". This verb is derived from "salire", which means "to jump" or "to leap" as well. The Latin roots are related to the Indo-European root *suel-, which means "to jump" or "to spring". "Saltation" in English refers to the action of leaping or jumping. In scientific contexts, it is specifically used to describe a type of movement or change that occurs abruptly or by sudden leaps rather than gradual progression.
