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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
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
Each year the dealmaking seems to take longer in this age of streaming and theatrical instability.
—Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 22 Jan. 2025
The retreat significantly weakened the U.S.'s position in international climate negotiations and sent a signal of instability to other countries.
—Nik Popli, TIME, 22 Jan. 2025
According to Verywell Mind, red flags include frequent outbursts, lack of accountability and emotional instability in professional settings.
—Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025
Decades of conflict in CAR mirror the instability in other fragile African states where reliance on Russia’s military offerings has become increasingly prevalent, amid an aggressive push by Moscow to lessen Western influence on the continent.
—Nimi Princewill, CNN, 18 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for instability
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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 28 Jan. 2025.
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
More from Merriam-Webster on instability
Nglish: Translation of instability for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of instability for Arabic Speakers
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