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Doddered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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doddered

[ˈdɒd.əd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

move unsteadily

To dodder means to walk in a shaky or unsteady manner, often due to age or frailty. This term is usually used to describe an elderly person who has lost some degree of physical control and moves slowly and carefully. It can also imply a certain vulnerability or helplessness in movement. The action may be associated with a physical decline or a lack of confidence in one's ability to walk steadily.

Synonyms

lurch, stumble, teeter, totter.

Examples of usage

  • The old man doddered across the street.
  • She doddered into the room, clutching a walker.
  • He was doddering around the garden, tending to the flowers.

Translations

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Origin of 'doddered'

The word 'doddered' traces its origins back to the early 17th century, possibly from the Middle English word 'dodder', which means 'to shake or tremble'. This root is believed to be connected to the Old English word 'doddor', meaning 'to tremble' or 'to shake', further emphasizing its association with unsteadiness. The introduction of 'dodder' into common usage likely reflected the observations of elderly individuals who exhibited physical frailty and instability in their movements. Over time, the term has remained in the English language, often used in a somewhat affectionate or sympathetic manner to describe the gait of the elderly or those who are struggling with mobility.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,522, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.