rickety
UK: ˈrɪkɪti | US: ˈrɪkɪti
adj. 1. (of a structure or object) weak, unstable, and likely to collapse.
adj. 2. (of a person or animal) feeble in health or movement; shaky.
The word "rickety" likely emerged in the early 17th century, possibly derived from the now-archaic term "ricket," meaning unsteady or shaky. The "-y" suffix transforms it into an adjective. Some theories suggest "ricket" may imitate the sound or motion of something wobbling. Over time, "rickety" became associated with physical instability, whether describing fragile structures or frail health.
The old barn stood with rickety walls, threatening to collapse in the next storm.
After the illness, she walked with a rickety gait.
The toddler balanced on the rickety wooden chair.
A rickety bridge spanned the narrow river.
His rickety bicycle squeaked with every turn of the wheels.