kilter

noun

kil·​ter ˈkil-tər 

: proper or usual state or condition : order

out of kilter

Synonyms of kilter

• shape
• health
• condition

Examples of kilter in a Sentence

since I dropped my food processor, it's been all out of kilter

Recent Examples on the Web

Bernstine’s every line reading is off-kilter and off-putting, making her worrisome one moment, badass the next, and frequently hilarious. — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 22 July 2026

As Penny tries to regain her parents’ trust and right the world that’s been thrown off-kilter, she’s pulled into a series of unexpected adventures that test her courage and identity. — Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 14 July 2026

But the constant attacking hadn’t paid off by the 20-minute mark, with Paraguay still defending well and France being just slightly off kilter with its passing in the final third of the pitch. — Patrick Sung Cuadrado, CNN Money, 4 July 2026

However, Trump has, for many decades, believes in unpredictability — making sudden shifts to put others in a negotiation off kilter. — Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing kilter

• off-kilter
• out of kilter

Rhymes for kilter

• filter
• quilter

Kids Definition

kilter

noun

kil·​ter ˈkil-tər 

: proper condition

the TV is out of kilter