In science, it typically describes a process that happens in a series of jumps or leaps, rather than smoothly and continuously. Here are a few examples:
* Saltatory Conduction: In neurobiology, this refers to the way electrical impulses jump from one node of Ranvier to the next along a myelinated nerve fiber. This makes the signal travel much faster than it would if it had to travel continuously down the axon.
* Saltatory Locomotion: This refers to a type of movement in which an animal moves by hopping or leaping. Think of a kangaroo or a frog.
* Saltatory Migration: In ecology, this refers to a type of migration in which animals move in a series of short, rapid jumps or leaps.
So, in general, saltatory means "jumping" or "leaping".