teeter

[ˈtiːtə]

teeter Definition

  • 1to stand or move in an unsteady way so that you look as if you are going to fall
  • 2to be in a state of uncertainty or instability

Using teeter: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "teeter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The toddler teetered on the edge of the pool.

  • Example

    The economy is teetering on the brink of collapse.

  • Example

    She teetered on her high heels, trying to maintain her balance.

  • Example

    The vase teetered on the edge of the table before falling off.

teeter Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for teeter

Antonyms for teeter

Phrases with teeter

  • teeter-totter

    a long narrow board pivoted in the middle so that when one end goes up the other goes down; a seesaw

    Example

    The children played on the teeter-totter in the park.

  • teeter on the brink/edge of something

    to be very close to a dangerous or difficult situation

    Example

    The company is teetering on the brink of bankruptcy.

  • to be uncertain or indecisive about which of two things to choose

    Example

    She was teetering between accepting the job offer and staying at her current job.

Origins of teeter

from Middle English 'titeren', meaning 'to totter'

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Summary: teeter in Brief

The verb 'teeter' [ˈtiːtə] means to stand or move in an unsteady way, often implying the possibility of falling. It also refers to being in a state of uncertainty or instability, as in 'The economy is teetering on the brink of collapse.' 'Teeter' has phrases like 'teeter-totter,' a seesaw, and 'teeter on the brink/edge of something,' meaning to be very close to a dangerous or difficult situation.