instability

noun

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

Synonyms of instability

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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.
The migration of working-class and Hispanic voters toward Trump in 2024, which now appeared to be swinging back to the Democrats in the midterms, suggested an underlying instability. — Benjamin Wallace-Wells, New Yorker, 18 Oct. 2026 The violence comes amid growing violence and instability in the West Bank, where the police and the Israeli army have often been accused by locals and activists of turning a blind eye or taking part in violence against Palestinians. — ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026 The report also links greater AI adoption with both higher throughput and elevated instability. — Jay Singh, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026 Strong winds throughout the atmosphere will create significant wind shear, while the return of warmer, more humid air provides the instability needed for thunderstorms. — Bill Kelly, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for instability

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instability. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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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
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