Päärata

Pöörata is an Estonian verb meaning to turn, rotate, or pivot. It is used for the physical act of turning an object around an axis as well as for changing direction or redirecting something’s course. In figurative use, pöörata can describe altering plans, opinions, or approaches.

Origin and related forms: The root pöör- denotes turning and appears in related words such as pöörama (to turn), pööramine (the act of turning), and pöörd. Pöörata is a derivational form built on this stem and shares the typical morphology of Estonian -ta verbs. The present passive form is commonly pööratakse, as in the example “Ratas pööratakse ümber” (the wheel is rotated around).

Usage and domains: In engineering and mechanics, pöörata describes rotating components, such as wheels, gears, or shafts. In navigation or task planning, it can refer to changing a course or redirecting operations. In mathematics or physics, it may denote the rotation of coordinate frames or objects in space. Figuratively, it can express a change in stance or strategy, such as turning one’s approach to a problem.

See also: pöörama, pööramine, pöörde. These related terms cover the broader semantic field of turning and rotation in Estonian, providing linguistic context for both the action itself and its formal expressions.