Definition of "oscillator"

oscillator

noun
plural oscillators
1. A tuned electronic circuit used to generate a continuous output waveform.
2. An instrument for measuring rigidity by the torsional oscillations of a weighted wire.
3. (cellular automata) A pattern that returns to its original state, in the same orientation and position, after a finite number of generations.
  Quotations
  He has turned up a number of new oscillators of periods 2,3,4,5,6, & 8.
  1989 October 26, Richard Schroeppel, “Some recent Life results”, in comp.theory.cell-automata‎ (Usenet)
  Two track segments, each of which realizes the same transformation in a different number of generations are particularly useful for obtaining oscillator periods.
  1996 December 16, Paul Callahan, “Need help in finding topic for research project”, in comp.theory.cell-automata‎ (Usenet)
  Synthesis of spaceship flotillas is even more complicated than synthesis of oscillators, since spaceships are like oscillators that move […]
  2010, Andrew Adamatzky, Game of Life Cellular Automata, page 126