instability

[ in-stuh-bil-i-tee ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being unstable; lack of stability or firmness.
2. the tendency to behave in an unpredictable, changeable, or erratic manner:

   emotional instability.

instability

/ ˌɪnstəˈbɪlɪtɪ /

noun

1. lack of stability or steadiness
2. tendency to variable or unpredictable behaviour
3. physics a fast growing disturbance or wave in a plasma

Word History and Origins

Origin of instability¹

1375–1425; late Middle English instabilite < Latin instabilitās. See in- ³, stability

Example Sentences

Before the US election, Scholz allies argued that now was not the time for early elections and political instability in Germany.

From BBC

Some argue that allowing a dysfunctional government to hobble on for another year would have led to more instability and deadlock.

From BBC

Many are concerned about these and other potential sources of domestic instability, including a surge in far-right violence that could be encouraged by foreign actors or by Trump himself.

From Los Angeles Times

This will create global instability.

From Salon

Anger will remain the dominant currency of American politics in a second Trump term, as Trump nurtures the very forces leading to so much anxiety and instability.

From Slate

Related Words

• anxiety
• fluctuation
• insecurity
• uncertainty
• volatility
• vulnerability
• weakness