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 And after years of instability and hardship, comfort had taken on a much deeper meaning than simply feeling cozy. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 2 Aug. 2026 The bottom line Savers will earn hundreds of dollars in interest with a $40,000 3-month CD now all while gaining a reprieve from today's market instability. — Matt Richardson, CBS News, 31 July 2026 Those movies are seen as part of an ongoing disempowering of the Haitian peoples, who have been continually hobbled by occupiers, imposed foreign debts and political instability. — Dennis Harvey, Variety, 31 July 2026 This pattern of instability is highly unusual from a historical standpoint. — Garret Martin, The Conversation, 31 July 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

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
The shift isn’t merely spatial but symbolic, representing what Yeon sees as the precariousness of human civilization itself.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 16 May 2026

Definition of precariousness

Noun

To put my whole psyche, insecurities, anecdotes, family, community, insanity out there in a show in this way.

— Damon Wise, Deadline, 29 July 2026
The actors grumble about shooting on the open ocean, trade stories, debate Shakespeare, art and fame, reveal stories of their past and share insecurities as the delays stretch on.

— Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

Definition of insecurity

Browse Nearby Words

in spite of

instability

install

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Style

“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instability. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of instability

noun

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