Falter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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falter

[ˈfɔːltər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

indecisiveness

To hesitate or waver in action, purpose, or intent. To speak hesitatingly; stammer. To move unsteadily; stumble or totter.

Synonyms

hesitate, stammer, stumble, waver.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
falter	This word can be used when someone begins to lose strength, momentum, or confidence, often in the middle of an action or speech. It suggests a momentary lapse or weakening. She started the speech confidently but began to falter halfway through His steps faltered as he approached the daunting task
hesitate	This word is appropriate when someone is pausing before taking action or speaking due to uncertainty or reluctance. It is typically used in situations where indecision is key. He hesitated before answering the difficult question She hesitated on the doorstep, unsure if she should knock
waver	This word fits when someone shows signs of weakening or indecision, particularly in their belief, opinion, or commitment. It can indicate vacillation. His resolve began to waver under pressure She wavered between two job offers
stammer	Use this word when describing someone speaking with involuntary pauses or repetitions, often due to nervousness or speech impairment. He began to stammer when asked about the incident She stammered nervously during her presentation
stumble	This word is used when someone trips while walking or makes an error while speaking. It can imply physical imbalance or a verbal mistake. He stumbled over a rock on the path During the debate, she stumbled over her words

Examples of usage

She began to falter in her decision to quit her job.
His voice faltered as he tried to explain himself.
The old man faltered as he walked down the steep hill.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

weakening

To lose strength or momentum; become weaker. To give way; collapse. To become unsteady or stumble.

Synonyms

decline, deteriorate, fail, weaken.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
falter	Use in situations where there is a temporary or slight loss of strength, confidence, or momentum. Often suggests hesitation or uncertainty. She began to falter during her speech when she saw the large audience. His voice faltered as he delivered the bad news.
weaken	Used when something becomes less strong or less powerful. It may suggest a gradual loss of strength or power, and can be used in various contexts whether physical, emotional, or situational. Her grip weakened as she grew tired. The team's defense weakened after their star player was injured.
decline	Best used when indicating a gradual and continuous loss or reduction in quality, value, or strength. It can be used in both formal and informal settings. The company's profits declined steadily over the last quarter. There has been a decline in public interest in the event.
deteriorate	Appropriate for describing something that is becoming progressively worse in condition, quality, or character. Often used in formal contexts and can have a negative connotation. The patient's health began to deteriorate rapidly. The political situation in the region has deteriorated significantly.
fail	Used when talking about completely falling short of success or showing a lack of success. It often carries a negative connotation and suggests a total breakdown or inability. The bridge failed under the weight of the heavy truck. He failed to meet the project deadline.

Examples of usage

The team's performance began to falter in the final minutes of the game.
His resolve faltered in the face of adversity.
The business started to falter due to financial difficulties.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, characters often falter at critical moments, symbolizing internal conflicts or dilemmas.
Famous works by authors like Shakespeare often depict heroes who falter as they head toward their ultimate fate, emphasizing human weakness.
In modern poetry, the term captures moments of vulnerability and uncertainty, allowing for deeper emotional connections.

Psychology

Faltering can be a natural response to stress or overwhelming situations as the body and mind attempt to recalibrate.
Research suggests that those who learn to embrace their moments of faltering may develop greater resilience in the face of challenges.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy often addresses thoughts that cause people to falter, helping individuals regain confidence.

Pop Culture

In movies and TV shows, heroes often falter in the face of great challenges, reinforcing the idea that imperfection is part of the journey.
Songs with themes of defeat frequently include the word, reflecting personal struggles and moments of doubt.
Contemporary social media trends often highlight the importance of vulnerability, using 'falter' in dialogues about mental health.

Science

In physics, the term can metaphorically describe a system's instability, where energy loss causes disruptions.
Scientists may describe a faltering process in ecosystems, such as when species begin to decline and fail to thrive.
In health sciences, faltering growth in children can indicate underlying nutritional or developmental issues, prompting earlier interventions.

Origin of 'falter'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Middle English 'falteren,' which means to stagger. It shares roots with similar words in other languages, implying a loss of balance.
In Old French, 'falter' meant to stumble, showing it has long been associated with losing one’s footing.
Connections can be drawn to the Proto-Germanic '*falþwō,' which also involves the concept of falling or failing.

The word 'falter' originated from Middle English 'falteren', which in turn came from Old English 'fealterian'. Its usage can be traced back to the 14th century. The word has evolved over time to encompass meanings related to hesitation, weakness, and unsteadiness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,215, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22212 stigmatized
22213 scornfully
22214 tepid
22215 falter
22216 equipage
22217 repeater
22218 ingenuous
...