Main Entry: un·sta·ble

Pronunciation: \-ˈstā-bəl\

Function: adjective

Date: 13th century

: not stable : not firm or fixed : not constant: as a : not steady in action or movement : irregular <an unstable pulse> b : wavering in purpose or intent : vacillating c : lacking steadiness : apt to move, sway, or fall <an unstable tower> d (1) : liable to change or alteration <an unstable economy> <unstable weather> (2) : readily changing (as by decomposing) in chemical or physical composition or in biological activity e : characterized by lack of emotional control

synonyms see inconstant

— un·sta·ble·ness noun

— un·sta·bly \-b(ə-)lē\ adverb