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wobbly
/ˈwɒb.li/
unstable or shaky
The table was so wobbly that my coffee almost spilled.
The table was unstable, causing the coffee to almost fall.
informal
tending to move unsteadily from side to side; shaky
The chair felt wobbly, so I didn’t trust it to hold my weight.
The chair was unstable, making me doubt its safety.
After the earthquake, the entire building felt wobbly.
The earthquake made the building feel shaky.
Often describes objects that lack stability due to poor balance or structural issues.
informal
unsteady in movement or behavior; lacking confidence
She felt wobbly on her feet after spinning around in circles.
Her balance was off after spinning, making her unsteady.
His voice was wobbly as he tried to hold back tears.
His voice trembled slightly, showing his emotional instability.
Can describe physical unsteadiness or emotional fragility.
Collocations
wobbly table/chaira table or chair that shakes when touchedwobbly legslegs that feel weak or unstablewobbly voicea voice that trembles or lacks steadiness
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'wobbly' for emotions
'Wobbly' is best used for physical instability or slight tremors. For strong emotions, consider 'shaky' or 'trembling' instead.
Gold Rule
Physical vs. Emotional Use
Use 'wobbly' for physical instability (e.g., a wobbly chair). For emotional states, it’s acceptable but less precise—opt for 'shaky' or 'trembling' in formal contexts.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'wobblen' (to move unsteadily), likely of imitative origin, related to 'wabble' and 'waver'. First recorded use in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both literal (physical instability) and figurative (emotional or behavioral instability) contexts. Often implies a lack of reliability or strength.
Word Breakdown
wobbl-
to move unsteadily
root-y
adjective-forming suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary