unstable
|un/stable|
B2
/ʌnˈsteɪbəl/
not stable
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unstable' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'unstable,' where 'un-' meant 'not' and 'stable' meant 'firm or steady.'
Historical Evolution
'unstable' changed from the Old French word 'unstable' and eventually became the modern English word 'unstable'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not firm or steady,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not firmly fixed; likely to change or fail.
The bridge is unstable and needs repairs.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35