tottering
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈtɒt.ər.ɪŋ/
KK: /ˈtɑtərɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is unsteady or wobbly, often used to refer to a person or object that is having difficulty standing or walking straight.
Example
The toddler was tottering around the room, trying to keep his balance.
Conversation
Did you see that cat tottering along the fence?
Yeah, it looked like it was about to fall off!
I know, right? It was so unsteady.
Poor thing, I hope it finds somewhere safe to sit.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unsteady
rickety
wobbly
Antonyms
stable
steady
firm
verb
Definition
To walk in an unsteady way, as if about to fall.
Example
The toddler was tottering around the room, trying to keep his balance.
Tense Forms
Past: tottered
Past Participle: tottered
Conversation
Did you see that little kid tottering around the park yesterday?
Yeah, it was adorable! He was trying so hard to keep his balance.
I know, right? It reminded me of when we were learning to walk.
Root Explanation
Tottering → It originates from the Middle English 'toteren', meaning to sway or stagger, which is of uncertain origin but may be related to the Old English 'toterian', meaning to shake or tremble. The word describes the action of swaying unsteadily, as if about to fall.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone who is 'swaying' or 'shaking' unsteadily — that's what 'tottering' means.
Visually Confused Words
untottering
tittering
twittering
stuttering
towering
untittering
titteringly
potteringly