volatility

noun

vol·​a·​til·​i·​ty ˌvä-lə-ˈti-lə-tē 

plural volatilities

: the quality or state of being volatile: such as

a

: a tendency to change quickly and unpredictably

price volatility

the volatility of the stock market

b

: a tendency to erupt in violence or anger

the volatility of the region

the volatility of his temper

c

: the quality of being readily vaporizable at a fairly low temperature

As each component of crude oil has a different relative volatility, they will evaporate at different temperatures.

—Martin W. Stockel et al.

Examples of volatility in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Selling or exercising these assets without a coordinated strategy could create an unexpected tax bill or increase exposure to market volatility. — Forbes.com, 12 Nov. 2026

The stock is one of the largest in the S&P 500 and other major indexes, and its volatility affects retirement funds across the globe. — Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 12 Nov. 2026

Kesy’s interpretation of Bobby’s scheming volatility is used as a consistent and never convincing red herring, without the character ever really feeling dangerous or like a person. — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 12 Nov. 2026

Citi's 2026 survey of 351 family offices found that inflation was their biggest concern, followed by interest rates, financial system stability and market volatility. — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 12 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for volatility

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