Tottering
ˈtɒt.ər.ɪŋ
Meaning & Definition
verb
To walk unsteadily, as though about to fall.
The drunken man was tottering down the street, struggling to keep his balance.
To move in a wavering or unsteady manner.
The toddler was tottering across the playground, delighting in her newfound walking ability.
To be in a state of instability or uncertainty.
The economy has been tottering on the brink of recession for several months now.
adjective
Moving unsteadily; unstable.
The tottering old man needed assistance to cross the street.
In a weak or precarious condition.
The tottering structure was in danger of collapse after the earthquake.
Etymology
From the verb 'totter', dating back to the late 16th century.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tottering on the brink
being very close to failure or collapse
tottering to and fro
moving back and forth unsteadily
Related Words
totter
to walk in a weak or unsteady manner
stagger
to walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall
Slang Meanings
to be in a state of confusion or disarray
After that party, I was totally tottering.
to feel overwhelmed or out of control
I was tottering under the pressure of finals.