unsteady

pronunciation

How to pronounce unsteady in British English: UK [ʌnˈstedi] word uk audio image

How to pronounce unsteady in American English: US [ʌnˈstɛdi] word us audio image

Adjective:

subject to change or variation especially in behavior
not having a steady rhythm
not firmly or solidly positioned

Word Origin

unsteady (adj.): 1590s, "not firm or secure in position," from un- (1) "not" + steady (adj.). Similar formation in Old Frisian unstadich, German unstätig, Middle Dutch onstadich. Meaning "marked by irregularity" is from 1680s. Related: Unsteadily (1550s).

unsteady (v.): "make unsteady," 1530s, from un- (2) "reverse, opposite of" + steady (v.). Related: Unsteadied; unsteadying.

Synonym

adj.

unsafe unsure unstable unsound weak unreliable

Antonym

adj.

Example

1. She spoke with an unsteady voice .

2. It would all be in my mind , making me unsteady .

3. Mathematical study on unsteady flows in a canal .

4. David poured two brandies with an unsteady hand .

5. Such munificence is rare in the music world , where business is unsteady for most travelling bands .

more: >How to Use "unsteady" with Example Sentences