wobble
UK: ˈwɒb.əl | US: ˈwɑː.bəl
vi. to move unsteadily from side to side
vt. to cause something to move unsteadily
n. an unsteady movement
wobble = wob<unsteady motion> + ble<frequentative verb suffix>
- wob<unsteady motion>: Likely imitative in origin, echoing the sound or motion of something unsteady.
- ble<frequentative verb suffix>: A suffix used to form verbs indicating repeated or continuous action (e.g., "dabble," "scribble").
Etymology Origin:
"Wobble" emerged in the late 17th century as an onomatopoeic word, mimicking the sound or motion of something rocking unevenly. The suffix "-le" reinforces the sense of repetitive movement, common in English verbs describing habitual actions. Its vivid sound symbolism makes it intuitive for describing shaky or unstable motion.
The table wobbled when he leaned on it.
She wobbled on her bike before gaining balance.
The jelly on the plate wobbled as he carried it.
His voice wobbled with nervousness during the speech.
Tighten the screw to stop the chair from wobbling.