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
In an era of generative AI, climate instability, and rapid technological acceleration, Panetta believes engineers must be adaptable, ethical, creative, and brave enough to take risks.
—
Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 28 May 2026
The surprise ouster marks the latest round of turmoil at BP, which has suffered flip-flops on strategy and leadership instability in recent years.
—Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 28 May 2026
The defining moment of Hadi’s presidency came in 2014, when Houthi fighters swept south from their northern strongholds and captured Sanaa amid growing public anger over economic hardship and political instability.
—ABC News, 28 May 2026
My Year of Rest and Relaxation and its many imitators treat the instability and anhedonia of women as a source of self-deprecating comedy and little else.
—Literary Hub, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for instability
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Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 28 May 2026
The surprise ouster marks the latest round of turmoil at BP, which has suffered flip-flops on strategy and leadership instability in recent years.
—Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 28 May 2026
The defining moment of Hadi’s presidency came in 2014, when Houthi fighters swept south from their northern strongholds and captured Sanaa amid growing public anger over economic hardship and political instability.
—ABC News, 28 May 2026
My Year of Rest and Relaxation and its many imitators treat the instability and anhedonia of women as a source of self-deprecating comedy and little else.
—Literary Hub, 28 May 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 30 May. 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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