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

The overall sense is that Trump’s pledge to increase tariffs and deport millions of undocumented immigrants could hurt businesses and cause instability.

From Salon

“Chinese leaders will reinforce the narrative that the US is the single and most disruptive source of global instability, while portraying China as a responsible and confident world power,” says Yu Jie.

From BBC

Musk has admitted that his plans would inflict "hardship" on Americans; austerity measures in other countries have led to skyrocketing poverty rates and economic instability.

From Salon

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

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

Related Words

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