instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: the quality or state of being unstable

especially : lack of emotional or mental stability

Synonyms of instability

• unsteadiness
• precariousness
• unstableness
• insecurity

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

The Vatican spokesman said there, Leo would address a range of issues, including the environment, arms tracking and political instability. — CBS News, 7 Nov. 2026

In his opening address, Al Jaber warned that nearly a billion barrels had been drawn from global oil inventories since the disruption of Hormuz, illustrating how quickly geopolitical instability can affect global energy supplies. — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2026

Sure, the Iran war is a source of political instability that might drive investors toward gold. — Cooper Katz McKim, NPR, 6 Nov. 2026

And as professionals on the lowest rung of the corporate totem pole, their rock-bottom salaries, job instability, and lack of savings may be keeping them home. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 6 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for instability

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• credibility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility

Kids Definition

instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

: the quality or state of being unstable

Medical Definition

instability

noun

in·​sta·​bil·​i·​ty ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural instabilities

: the quality or state of being unstable

especially : lack of emotional or mental stability