Meaning & Definition of word "Tottering"

Tottering

ˈtɒt.ər.ɪŋ

1. To walk unsteadily, as though about to fall.
- Example: The drunken man was tottering down the street, struggling to keep his balance.
2. To move in a wavering or unsteady manner.
- Example: The toddler was tottering across the playground, delighting in her newfound walking ability.
3. To be in a state of instability or uncertainty.
- Example: The economy has been tottering on the brink of recession for several months now.

1. Moving unsteadily; unstable.
- Example: The tottering old man needed assistance to cross the street.
2. In a weak or precarious condition.
- Example: The tottering structure was in danger of collapse after the earthquake.

●From the verb 'totter', dating back to the late 16th century.

tottering on the brink:

being very close to failure or collapse

tottering to and fro:

moving back and forth unsteadily

totter:

to walk in a weak or unsteady manner

stagger:

to walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall

Meaning: to be in a state of confusion or disarray

● Example Sentence: After that party, I was totally tottering.

Meaning: to feel overwhelmed or out of control

● Example Sentence: I was tottering under the pressure of finals.