faltering

IPA

Dictionary definition of faltering

Hesitant, unsteady, or showing signs of uncertainty or weakness.
"The faltering economy caused widespread concern among investors."

Detailed meaning of faltering

It indicates a lack of confidence, stability, or consistency in the subject being described. When used to describe a person, "faltering" suggests a wavering or stumbling demeanor, often characterized by a hesitant or unsteady gait or speech pattern. It can also refer to someone experiencing a lack of conviction or uncertainty in their actions or decisions. Additionally, the term "faltering" can be used to describe processes or systems that are struggling, faltering, or failing to operate smoothly or efficiently. In general, the adjective "faltering" conveys a sense of instability, fragility, or lack of firmness, indicating a momentary or ongoing state of hesitation, weakness, or unsteadiness.

Example sentences containing faltering

1. The faltering steps of the elderly man showed his need for support.
2. Her faltering voice betrayed her nervousness during the presentation.
3. The company's faltering sales prompted them to reassess their marketing strategy.
4. The runner's faltering pace indicated that he was nearing exhaustion.
5. His faltering confidence was evident in his hesitant responses.
6. The teacher provided extra guidance to help the faltering student catch up with the class.

History and etymology of faltering

The adjective 'faltering' has its etymology rooted in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word 'fealterian,' which means 'to hesitate' or 'to waver.' The Old English term itself has Germanic origins, closely related to the Old High German word 'faltirōn,' which carries a similar meaning of being unsteady or hesitant. 'Faltering' is characterized by its association with actions or behaviors that exhibit uncertainty or weakness. Whether it's a faltering voice or a faltering step, the term reflects its etymological heritage in the concept of hesitating or wavering, which can manifest physically or metaphorically in various situations.

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Further usage examples of faltering

1. The faltering engine of the old car made strange noises as it struggled to start.
2. The faltering project required additional resources to get back on track.
3. Her faltering memory made it difficult for her to recall important details.
4. The team's faltering performance led to their loss in the crucial match.
5. The faltering relationship showed signs of strain as they struggled to communicate effectively.
6. Her faltering voice revealed her inner turmoil during the presentation.
7. He gave a faltering smile as he faced an unexpected challenge.
8. The team's faltering progress raised concerns among stakeholders.
9. In the dim light, her faltering steps echoed through the corridor.
10. His faltering resolve wavered in the face of temptation.
11. The faltering economy required swift and decisive action.
12. She offered a faltering apology for her mistake.
13. The politician's faltering speech failed to inspire confidence.
14. Despite his faltering health, he remained optimistic.
15. Their faltering relationship needed open communication.
16. The faltering signal on the radio made communication difficult.
17. A faltering sense of direction left them lost in the wilderness.
18. The student's faltering grades were a cause for concern.
19. His faltering memory made it hard to recall important details.
20. She noticed his faltering enthusiasm for the project.
21. The faltering engine sputtered before finally starting.
22. His faltering resolve to quit smoking was tested again.
23. The team's faltering performance led to a coaching change.
24. She made a faltering attempt to bridge the generation gap.
25. Despite faltering confidence, he pushed forward with his dream.