Meaning & Definition of word "Erratic"

Erratic

/ɪˈrætɪk/

adjective:

  • 1. Unexpected and not consistent; irregular in pattern or behavior.
    • Example: His erratic driving made the journey quite frightening.
  • 2. Having no fixed course; not even or regular in pattern.
    • Example: The stock market showed erratic fluctuations throughout the week.
  • 3. Wandering or having no fixed course; deviating from the norm.
    • Example: The erratic behavior of the animal raised concerns among the wildlife experts.

Etymology

Late Latin erraticus meaning 'wandering, straying'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

erratic behavior:

unpredictable actions that deviate from the norm.

erratic driving:

driving that is inconsistent and dangerous.

erratic performance:

performance that fluctuates and lacks reliability.

Related Words

irregular:

not occurring at proper intervals.

inconsistent:

not compatible or in keeping with.

capricious:

given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.

Slang Meanings of erratic

Meaning: off the rails

Example Sentence: After everything that happened, he's been totally off the rails.

Meaning: out there

Example Sentence: Her ideas are a bit out there, but that’s what makes them interesting.