What movement is characteristic of a pivot joint?

A pivot joint is specifically designed to allow rotation about an axis, which is characteristic of its unique structure. In this type of joint, one bone rotates around another, enabling movements such as the turning of the head from side to side (as when shaking your head) or the rotation of the forearm when performing actions like turning the palm upward or downward. This rotation is made possible because of the cylindrical shape of the bone that fits into a ring-like structure of another bone, facilitating a rotational movement that is essential for various physical activities and functions.

The other types of movements associated with the other options do not accurately represent the functionality of a pivot joint. Flexion and extension describe movements primarily found in hinge joints, gliding pertains to the sliding movements seen in planar joints, and reciprocal action is not a defined movement associated with a specific joint type. Thus, the pivot joint's ability to enable rotation about an axis is what makes this answer correct.