Definitions

tottering

[tot-er-ing] / ˈtɒt ər ɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

unstable

Synonyms

STRONG

dizzy fluctuating moving suspect teetering unsettled vacillating wavering weaving

WEAK

ambiguous borderline capricious changeable dubious erratic fickle fitful giddy inconsistent inconstant insecure irrational lubricious mercurial mobile movable mutable not fixed precarious rickety risky rocky sensitive shaky shifty slippery temperamental ticklish tottery tricky uncertain unpredictable unsteady untrustworthy variable volatile weak wiggly wobbly

ADJECTIVE

insecure

Synonyms

STRONG

exposed loose rootless vacillating wavering

WEAK

defenseless fluctuant frail hazardous immature infirm insubstantial open to attack perilous precarious rickety rocky shaky tottery unguarded unprotected unreliable unsafe unshielded unsound unstable unsteady unsure vulnerable weak wobbly

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.

In a speech aimed at steadying his tottering premiership on Monday, Sir Keir said "incremental change won't cut it" as he promised to "face up to the big challenges" the country faced.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

But just as the left-hander was getting going, Starc pounced again, trapping him lbw for 21 to leave England tottering on 33-2.

From Barron's • Nov. 21, 2025

He regularly held Saturday morning sessions with experts on the tottering Soviet empire and led the George H.W.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 4, 2025

The singer’s sweeping eyeliner, tottering heels and disheveled beehive are still instantly recognizable, 13 years after her death.

From New York Times • May 16, 2024

“Smooth,” said Ron approvingly as the waiters popped up on all sides, some bearing silver trays of pumpkin juice, butterbeer, and firewhisky, others tottering piles of tarts and sandwiches.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling

tottering

Example Sentences

Related Words