instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce instability (audio)
: the quality or state of being unstable
especially : lack of emotional or mental stability

Examples of instability in a Sentence

Investors are worried about the current instability of the stock market. The patient has a history of emotional instability.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
However, the shoes aren’t ideal for intense activities, due to some heel instability and poor fit of the elastic band at the collar. Trina Gray, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024 Trump’s harsher trade policies toward China, combined with his antipathy toward U.S. alliances in the Asia-Pacific, point to greater instability in U.S.-China relations, said Wu Xinbo, director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University in Shanghai. Jennifer Jett, NBC News, 22 Oct. 2024 Growth for growth’s sake can put immense pressure on your working capital and lead to financial instability. Marek Niedzwiedz, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 But amid the instability, Neely's relationship with his mother blossomed. Kiara Alfonseca, ABC News, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for instability 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of instability was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near instability

Cite this Entry

“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instability. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

instability

noun
in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce instability (audio)
: the quality or state of being unstable

Medical Definition

instability

noun
in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce instability (audio)
plural instabilities
: the quality or state of being unstable
especially : lack of emotional or mental stability

More from Merriam-Webster on instability

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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