instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce instability (audio)
: the quality or state of being unstable
especially : lack of emotional or mental stability

Examples of instability in a Sentence

Investors are worried about the current instability of the stock market. The patient has a history of emotional instability.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
And far too often, countries are plunged into intractable conflict that leads to regional instability with global implications. Jason Carter, Time, 4 Sep. 2025 Electric Dusk arrived as Motown was reincorporated into Capitol Music Group, creating instability that somewhat stunted the record’s potential. Kyle Denis, Billboard, 4 Sep. 2025 How well people living with the instability of addiction, the irregularities of low-income work or poor access to transportation or internet navigate new requirements will take time to play out. Chris Kenning, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2025 Some immigrants fear returning to their native countries due to violence and instability, while others face the risk of deportation and family separation. Rick Barrett, jsonline.com, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for instability

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of instability was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instability. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

instability

noun
in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce instability (audio)
: the quality or state of being unstable

Medical Definition

instability

noun
in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce instability (audio)
plural instabilities
: the quality or state of being unstable
especially : lack of emotional or mental stability

More from Merriam-Webster on instability

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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