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.
Despite all odds—geopolitical strife and upheaval, an economic instability and rising inflation—shoppers are still spending. Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 23 Oct. 2025 Extreme weather is battering installations from Guam to North Carolina and fueling instability in regions overseas where American forces may be called to intervene. Ames Alexander, Miami Herald, 22 Oct. 2025 Egypt’s economic woes Egypt is weathering soaring inflation, as well as instability from the still-smoldering war in neighboring Gaza. Sam McNeil, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2025 Launched in July, the program was initially allocated $100,000 to support individuals and families with low to moderate incomes who face economic instability due to ICE actions, including raids. Mona Darwish, Oc Register, 22 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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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