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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Frequent wars or economic disruptions over decades signal instability. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024 The area continues to grapple with instability even after Assad's ousting. Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024 Meanwhile, governments that took up the mantle of climate leadership during Trump's first term, such as Germany, France and Canada, are enmeshed in political instability. Andrew Freedman, Axios, 19 Dec. 2024 Political instability Europe is also facing political uncertainty inside its borders, with two of the region’s biggest economies, France and Germany, in the throes of political turmoil. Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 18 Dec. 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 26 Dec. 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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