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totter

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈtɒtə/

KK: /ˈtɑtər/

intransitive verb
Definition

To walk or move in a way that is unsteady and likely to fall over.


Example

After a long day, he began to totter as he walked home.


Tense Forms

Past: tottered

Past Participle: tottered


Conversation
Sloth A
I saw a toddler trying to walk; he started to totter like he was about to fall.
Sloth B
That's so cute! They really do look unsteady at first.
Sloth A
Yeah, it reminded me of how we used to walk when we were kids.
Sloth B
Exactly! It's funny how we all totter before we learn to run.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stagger
sway
wobble
Antonyms
steady
balance
stabilize
noun
Definition

The state of walking or moving in an unsteady way, often because of weakness or instability.


Example

The toddler had a cute totter as he tried to walk across the room.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen someone totter when they're really tired?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's kind of funny but also sad at the same time.
Sloth A
I feel like I do that sometimes when I stay up too late.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Totter → This word originates from Middle English 'toteren', meaning to sway or stagger. The term describes the action of moving unsteadily, as if about to fall.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone swaying or staggering as they walk — that's what it means to totter.

Visually Confused Words
trotter
stotter
toter
otter
touter
tother
tooter
tolter
Is this page helpful?
Same here! It's like you can't even walk straight!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stagger
wobble
sway
Antonyms
stability
balance
steadiness