Flickering: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes a light that shines unsteadily or varies rapidly in brightness. Often used for candles, screens, or flames.

• The candle's flickering light created spooky shadows on the walls.
• I noticed the TV was flickering, so I called the technician.

Describes something not firm or stable, often shaky. Can apply to physical objects, movements, or even emotional states.

• He was walking with unsteady steps after the surgery.
• Her voice was unsteady as she made the announcement.

Often used to describe the quick, light movements of something, such as wings, fabrics, or leaves. It can also describe a sudden feeling of excitement or nervousness.

• The butterfly was fluttering around the garden.
• She felt her heart fluttering with excitement before the performance.

Implies hesitating or being undecided. Can also describe something that shakes, quivers, or fluctuates in intensity.

• She was wavering between staying at her job and quitting to travel the world.
• The flag was wavering in the strong wind.

Use when describing quick, irregular movements, especially with light or a flame.

• The candle's flame was flickering in the wind
• The old neon sign was flickering on and off

Use when describing hesitation or an inability to make a decision, or when something is shaking or moving in an unsteady way.

• She wavered between going to the party and staying home
• The flag wavered in the strong wind

Use when describing a slight, rapid trembling movement, typically because of emotion or cold.

• She felt her hands quiver as she stood before the audience
• The leaves began to quiver in the gentle breeze