Meaning & Definition of word "Erratic"

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    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.