falters; faltered; faltering
1
: to stop being strong or successful : to begin to fail or weaken
The business was faltering due to poor management.
Their initial optimism has faltered.
signs that the economy is faltering
2
: to begin to walk or move in an unsteady way
Her steps began to falter.
3
: to feel doubt about doing something
He never faltered [=wavered] in his determination to go to college.
4
Note: If your voice falters, you are unable to speak normally because you are unsure about what to say or because you are feeling strong emotions.
Cite this Entry
“Falter.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/falter. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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