Pronunciation: [sˈɒltətəɹˌi] (IPA) 
Saltatory, pronounced sɑlˈtætəri, is a term used to describe a type of movement or growth that involves jumps or leaps. The word is derived from the Latin "saltare," meaning "to leap." In the IPA phonetic transcription, "s" is pronounced as /s/, "a" as /ɑ/, "l" as /l/, "t" as /t/, "æ" as /æ/, "r" as /r/, and "i" as /i/. The stress is on the second syllable, hence the accent is placed on the "ta" in "saltatory."
Saltatory is an adjective that refers to something or someone that jumps, leaps or moves in a quick, bouncing manner, similar to the way particles or impulses move in a discontinuous manner. It is derived from the Latin word "saltare," which means "to leap" or "to dance."
In a literal sense, saltatory can describe the movement of certain animals, such as kangaroos, rabbits, or fleas, that have adapted to leap or bounce as their primary mode of locomotion. This skilled and efficient mode of movement allows them to cover greater distances with minimal effort.
In a metaphorical sense, saltatory can be used to describe processes or phenomena that involve a sudden or rapid transition or movement between two distinct points or states. For example, in neurophysiology, the term "saltatory conduction" refers to the rapid transmission of nerve impulses through jumps or leaps along myelinated nerve fibers, enhancing the speed and efficiency of the nervous system.
Similarly, in the field of genetics, saltatory evolution refers to the rapid and abrupt genetic changes, often resulting in significant phenotypic differences, that occur over short periods of time. These changes can lead to the rapid divergence and speciation of organisms.
Overall, saltatory is a versatile term used to depict various forms of rapid or discontinuous movements, transitions, or changes, both in the literal and metaphorical sense.
Leaping or dancing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "saltatory" comes from the Latin word "saltatorius", which is derived from the verb "saltare", meaning "to dance or jump". In English, "saltatory" is used to describe something that pertains to or relates to jumping or dancing. It is often used in scientific contexts to describe a particular mode of locomotion or movement, such as the saltatory conduction of nerve impulses.
