English Explanatory Dictionary

unstable

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adj
  1. Not stable.
  2. Having a strong tendency to change.
  3. Fluctuating; not constant.
  4. Fickle.
  5. Unpredictable.
  6. Readily decomposable.
  7. Radioactive, especially with a short half-life.
verb
  1. To release (an animal) from a stable.

Pronunciation

/ʌnˈsteɪ.bəl/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-unstable.wav

Word forms

unstable more unstable most unstable unstables unstabling unstabled

Etymology

From Middle English unstable; equivalent to un- (not) + stable.

Synonyms

tottering unsteady wobbly labile instable arbitrary capricious

Antonyms

stable

Related words

instability unstability

Derived words

emotionally unstable personality disorder unstable equilibrium
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