Rolly

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Pronunciation: /ˈɹəʊlɪ/

Definitions

1. Having a tendency to roll about or turn over frequently
2. Characterized by movement involving rolling or a readiness to roll in various directions
3. Describing an object or person that easily rolls or shifts position due to instability

Etymology: "Rolly" is simply "roll" with the adjective-forming suffix "-y" added, the same ending found in words like "bumpy" or "sandy." The base word "roll" comes from Old French "rouler," which in turn descends from Latin "rotulare," meaning to move in a circle, from "rotulus," a little wheel. The word's closest relative is the older "roly-poly," a term for a plump, round-bodied person or a rolling pudding, which points to the sense of something rounded that tips and rocks. "Rolly" narrowed that idea toward the physical instability of a thing that will not stay put. A rolly boat or a rolly chair is one that shifts under you, which is why the word is most at home in talk about ships, furniture and wobbly tables.