mobile

mobile [mō′bəl, mō′bīl΄; ] for adj. 5 [ & ] n. [, mō′bēl΄]

adj.

[OFr < L mobilis, movable < movere, to MOVE]

1.

a) moving, or capable of moving or being moved, from place to place

b) movable by means of a motor vehicle or vehicles [a mobile X-ray unit]

2. very fluid, as mercury

3. capable of changing rapidly or easily, as in response to different moods, feelings, conditions, needs, or influences; flexible, adaptable, etc.

4.

a) designating or of a society in which one may change in social status, and in which social groups mingle freely

b) designating a person who is experiencing a change in social status [the upwardly mobile professional]

5. Art that is or has to do with a mobile or mobiles

n.

a piece of abstract sculpture which aims to depict movement, i.e., kinetic rather than static rhythms, as by an arrangement of thin forms, rings, rods, etc. balanced and suspended in midair and set in motion by air currents

mobility [mō bil′ə tē]

n.