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Definition of instability

instability

/ˌɪnstəˈbɪləti/
in · sta · bil · i · ty
Adverb:unstably
•
Plural:instabilities
•
Adjective:unstable
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instability Lexical Profile

instability Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or quality of being unstable, unpredictable, or prone to sudden change, especially in political, economic, or physical systems.

Example

"Economic instability in the region discouraged foreign companies from investing in long-term infrastructure."

2

A tendency toward erratic behavior, emotional volatility, or mental imbalance.

Example

"The counselor noted that prolonged sleep deprivation had contributed to his emotional instability."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for instability

• Nearby Words

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inspiringly
inspo
instability
instagram
install
installation

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'instabilité', from Latin 'instabilitas' (unsteadiness), formed from 'instabilis' (unstable), combining 'in-' (not) and 'stabilis' (able to stand, firm, from 'stare', to stand).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Instability. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/instability
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