volatile
|vol/a/tile|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈvɑːlətl/
🇬🇧
/ˈvɒlətʌɪl/
unstable, changeable
Etymology
Etymology Information
'volatile' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'volatilis,' where 'volare' meant 'to fly.'
Historical Evolution
'volatilis' transformed into the French word 'volatile,' and eventually became the modern English word 'volatile' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'able to fly,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'unstable' and 'easily evaporated.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse.
The stock market is highly volatile.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
(of a substance) easily evaporated at normal temperatures.
Alcohol is a volatile substance.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41