erratic
UK: ɪˈrætɪk | US: ɪˈrætɪk
adj. irregular or unpredictable in movement, behavior, or pattern
adj. deviating from the usual or proper course
n. (geology) a rock or boulder that differs from the surrounding rock and is believed to have been brought from a distance by glacial action
erratic = err<to wander> + atic<adjective suffix>
- err (from Latin errare, meaning "to wander, stray, or go astray")
- atic (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating a relation or characteristic)
Etymology Origin:
The word erratic traces back to the Latin erraticus, derived from errare ("to wander"). It originally described physical wandering (e.g., planets with irregular orbits) and later evolved to metaphorically describe unpredictable behavior or irregular patterns. The geological sense (a displaced rock) emerged in the 18th century, reflecting the idea of being "carried away" from its origin.
The stock market has been erratic this week, with sudden rises and falls.
His erratic driving alarmed the other motorists.
The glacier left behind several erratic boulders in the valley.
Her attendance at work has become increasingly erratic.
The team's performance was erratic, alternating between brilliance and carelessness.