Definitions

instability

[in-stuh-bil-i-tee] / ˌɪn stəˈbɪl ɪ ti /

NOUN

imbalance, inconstancy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anxiety fluctuation insecurity uncertainty volatility vulnerability weakness

STRONG

alternation capriciousness changeability changeableness disequilibrium disquiet fickleness fitfulness flightiness fluidity frailty hesitation immaturity impermanence inconsistency inquietude irregularity irresolution mutability oscillation pliancy precariousness restlessness shakiness transience unpredictability unreliability unsteadiness vacillation variability wavering

WEAK

unfixedness

Antonyms

STRONG

calm

WEAK

balance constancy soundness stability steadfastness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

However, because of the molecule's extreme instability, no one had been able to directly observe it in such conditions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 11, 2026

"For the past five decades, we both have been facing instability in our countries in the form of refugees," Durrani says.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

The IMF chief said regulators should be on alert for any signs of instability in the financial system as a consequence of the conflict.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Some of what has impacted the unimpressive growth of the addressable audience for home entertainment has been the instability of the market.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

Scientists now accept instability of volcanoes as a major hazard.

From "Mountain of Fire" by Rebecca E. F. Barone

Vocabulary lists containing instability

Southeast Asia - Middle School

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Southeast Asia - High School

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Second Democratic Debate 20 words

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