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
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
Youth violence prevention also highlighted The day's programming also included a Youth Violence Conflict Resolution Seminar, focused on addressing violence and instability affecting young people.
—
Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 8 Mar. 2026
Relying heavily on a tiny slice of ultra-wealthy residents already creates instability.
—Tiffany Caban, New York Daily News, 8 Mar. 2026
During that time, the community also confronted wildfires, landslides, coastal erosion, development battles, evacuation challenges and insurance instability.
—Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 7 Mar. 2026
Ahead of the front, a deep pool of moisture-rich air from the Gulf of Mexico will continue to build, increasing atmospheric instability and helping storms develop and intensify.
—Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for instability
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Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 8 Mar. 2026
Relying heavily on a tiny slice of ultra-wealthy residents already creates instability.
—Tiffany Caban, New York Daily News, 8 Mar. 2026
During that time, the community also confronted wildfires, landslides, coastal erosion, development battles, evacuation challenges and insurance instability.
—Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 7 Mar. 2026
Ahead of the front, a deep pool of moisture-rich air from the Gulf of Mexico will continue to build, increasing atmospheric instability and helping storms develop and intensify.
—Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for instability
Cite this Entry
“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instability. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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