instability
UK: ˌɪnstəˈbɪləti | US: ˌɪnstəˈbɪləti
n. the state of being unstable; lack of firmness or steadiness
n. tendency to change or fail suddenly
instability = in<not> + stabil<steady> + ity<noun suffix>
- in (prefix): Negation, from Latin "in-" meaning "not."
- stabil (root): From Latin "stabilis," meaning "steady" or "firm."
- ity (suffix): Forms abstract nouns indicating a state or condition, from Latin "-itas."
Etymology Origin:
The word "instability" originates from Latin roots, combining "in-" (not) with "stabilis" (steady) and the noun-forming suffix "-ity." It reflects a logical progression from the concept of "steadiness" to its opposite, "lack of steadiness," through the addition of the negating prefix. The term has retained this core meaning in English, describing physical, emotional, or systemic unpredictability.
The political instability in the region discouraged foreign investment.
Emotional instability can affect decision-making abilities.
The bridge was closed due to structural instability.
Economic instability often leads to market volatility.
The chemical compound's instability makes it dangerous to handle.