instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: the quality or state of being unstable

especially : lack of emotional or mental stability

Synonyms of instability

• unsteadiness
• precariousness
• unstableness
• insecurity

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

Young workers have adapted to instability, ambiguity, automation, debt and institutional indifference for years now. —Jennie Glazer, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

For years, Haitian soccer was undermined by the country’s political instability, poor administration of its football federation, unpaid players and scandal. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 18 June 2026

The second is one of widening discontent in Moscow’s population and the political instability that can bring. —Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 18 June 2026

Limited instability should keep any stronger storms isolated. —Joseph Dames, CBS News, 18 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for instability

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• credibility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility

Kids Definition

instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

: the quality or state of being unstable

Medical Definition

instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural instabilities

: the quality or state of being unstable

especially : lack of emotional or mental stability