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teeter

verb

/ˈtiːtə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of teeter

To wobble, shake, or balance unsteadily, often on the verge of falling over.
"Do not let your confidence teeter in the face of adversity."

Detailed meaning of teeter

It can refer to a physical object or a person's movements. For example, a chair with a short leg might teeter back and forth, or a person walking on a narrow ledge might teeter on the edge. The word often implies a sense of precariousness or instability, as if the object or person is on the brink of losing balance or control. Teetering can be caused by a variety of factors, such as uneven surfaces, weak structures, or lack of coordination. Overall, the verb "teeter" suggests a state of uncertainty, vulnerability, or danger, and can be used to describe a variety of situations and movements.

Example sentences containing teeter

1. Watch that tower of books; it may teeter at any moment.
2. We can't let our hopes teeter with every new challenge.
3. They stand back and watch as the massive structure starts to teeter.
4. Don't let the cup teeter on the edge of the table like that.
5. I ask you to help me, not let my faith teeter.
6. Be cautious, the shelf might teeter under all that weight.

History and etymology of teeter

The verb 'teeter' has its etymological roots in the Middle English word 'titeren,' which meant 'to totter' or 'to wobble.' Its precise origins are somewhat unclear, but 'teeter' aptly describes the action of wobbling, shaking, or balancing unsteadily, often on the verge of falling over. The term conveys a sense of instability and precariousness, as if something is on the brink of losing its balance. 'Teeter' is a word frequently used to depict the unsteady movement of individuals or objects, suggesting a delicate and sometimes uncertain equilibrium. It embodies the notion of being in a state of flux or vulnerability, where a slight shift could result in a loss of stability.

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Further usage examples of teeter

1. When the balance of nature starts to teeter, problems arise.
2. The novice skier watched the steep slope, her bravery beginning to teeter.
3. Despite the turbulence, they did not let their resolve teeter.
4. The child let the tower of blocks teeter before gently adding one more.
5. The teacup on the saucer will teeter if you're not careful.
6. We've allowed the ecosystem to teeter for too long; now, we must act.
7. After the storm, the lone tree began to teeter ominously.
8. Our progress should not teeter based on the whims of the opposition.
9. As the wind picked up, the sign started to teeter dangerously.
10. We should not let our happiness teeter due to external circumstances.
11. See how the scales teeter when you add too much weight on one side?
12. The ice cream cone started to teeter as he added the fourth scoop.
13. When life starts to teeter, remember to find your balance.
14. The toddler began to teeter on the edge of the playground slide.
15. The tower of blocks started to teeter before collapsing.
16. Her high heels made her teeter on the cobblestone street.
17. The old chair began to teeter as he leaned back.
18. The birdhouse teetered on the edge of the tree branch.
19. Balancing on one foot, she started to teeter and regain balance.
20. The stack of books teetered on the edge of the table.
21. The Jenga tower continued to teeter with each move.
22. The boat teetered as it navigated the rough waves.
23. The exhausted hiker began to teeter on the steep trail.
24. The gymnast managed to teeter on the balance beam before dismounting.