Definition of instabilitynext
as in unsteadiness
the quality or state of not being firmly fixed in position the instability of the bridge became tragically apparent when it suddenly collapsed

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of instability These arrangements help households cope with job instability, illness and long work hours. Sothy Eng, The Conversation, 2 Feb. 2026 The officer attributed the spike in violence in September to the speed at which the moves occurred and to the general instability that comes whenever a large group of new youth come into a facility. Jason Henry, Daily News, 1 Feb. 2026 At the same time, a frontal boundary will approach from the northwest, increasing atmospheric moisture and instability. Newsroom Meteorologist, Austin American Statesman, 1 Feb. 2026 The mental health and wellbeing of our youth is among the most pressing issues facing our society today, driven by factors ranging from academic and peer pressures, instability at home, economic uncertainty and overuse of devices. Carlos Curbelo, Sun Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for instability
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instability
Noun
  • The recent private jobs reports released from ADP also showed unsteadiness.
    Steve Kopack, NBC news, 3 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • The situation in Venezuela is further complicated by the volatility of the exchange rate, the high prices of goods and basic products, and the precariousness of salaries and bonuses for millions of workers in the public sector, Trak said.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 5 Dec. 2025
  • Trump’s emergency order, along with subsequent federal deployments that have continued in some form even after the formal emergency expired, highlighted the precariousness of local control.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • How the producers aren’t manipulative gods, but brilliant storytellers, animated by their own needs and insecurities, who sometimes push too hard in their quest to alchemize real people into three-act structure.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Jan. 2026
  • For each surface problem, uncover the hidden fear or insecurity driving it.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instability. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

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