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wippen

to bob up and down; to bounce on the balls of one's feet

verb VIP-pen Rare
Body & Health Movement

Also means

to seesaw

Usage Note

wippen describes a small, rhythmic up-and-down motion; athletes often auf den Fußballen wippen (bounce on the balls of their feet) to stay loose. It suggests nervous energy or restlessness when not in a sports context.

Examples

"Er wippte ungeduldig auf den Fußballen, während er auf seinen Einsatz wartete."

Natural Translation

He bounced impatiently on the balls of his feet while waiting for his cue.

Literal Translation

He bounced impatiently on the foot-balls, while he on his cue waited.

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