INSTABILITY Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

instability

noun

ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē

Definition of instability

as in unsteadiness

the quality or state of not being firmly fixed in position the instability of the bridge became tragically apparent when it suddenly collapsed

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of instability The regimes that employed Elwood gave rise to a decade of violence and instability in the Middle East, the aftershocks of which are still being felt. — Rob Picheta, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026 The country is a hub for drug trafficking between Latin America and Europe, an issue experts say fuels its political instability. — ABC News, 30 Aug. 2026 There may be enough instability ahead of it for a few thunderstorms this afternoon, especially across southern New Jersey and Delmarva. — Bill Kelly, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 At their worst, a cloud of quarterback instability overshadowed the season. — David Troy Outkick, FOXNews.com, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for instability

Recent Examples of Synonyms for instability

Noun

Dogs may also experience unsteadiness or lack of coordination, and in severe cases, seizures or coma may occur.

— Gina Kalsi, PEOPLE, 13 July 2026
Unlike dizziness — which causes lightheadedness or unsteadiness — vertigo feels more like spinning.

— Lindsey Bever, Washington Post, 27 May 2026

Definition of unsteadiness

Noun

In 2026 Cusk published her most controversial work yet, Life of M, a novel that examines fame, celebrity culture, and the precariousness of identity.

— René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Sep. 2026
But an Iranian diplomat promptly rejected this, saying such a visit can only come after a final deal — a denial that highlighted the precariousness of the ongoing negotiations.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 June 2026

Definition of precariousness

Noun

However, insecurity remains a notable weak point, testing his reelection odds ahead of an election in January.

— Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 2 Sep. 2026
Seething at his dad for poking at his body insecurities, the comedian dealt with his emotions like any good millennial — by podcasting about it.

— Deputy Entertainment, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of insecurity

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in spite of

instability

install

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“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instability. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of instability

noun

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