Waver: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is unsure and changes their mind between different decisions or choices. Often associated with emotional or mental indecision.

• She wavered between telling the truth or keeping the secret
• His confidence did not waver even under pressure

When someone pauses before doing something because of uncertainty or fear. Implies a short moment of doubt or delay.

• She hesitated before answering the difficult question
• Don't hesitate to ask if you need help

Used when describing irregular up and down changes, usually related to numbers, levels, or conditions, without a clear pattern.

• The stock prices fluctuate daily
• The temperature has been fluctuating all week

Describes the action of continuously changing one's opinions or decisions, often seen as a weakness. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• He vacillated for weeks before deciding on a new car
• The committee continues to vacillate on important decisions

Waver is typically used when describing someone who is indecisive or unsure. It can also describe a physical movement that is not steady, like a flag in the wind.

• Her voice wavered as she gave the speech.
• He wavered between accepting the job offer and staying at his current job.

Quiver is often used to describe a small, rapid shaking movement, usually caused by emotion like fear, excitement, or cold.

• She could feel a quiver in her voice as she spoke.
• The leaves quivered in the breeze.

Fluctuation is best used when talking about changes that occur up and down in a situation over time, such as prices, temperatures, or moods.

• The fluctuation in stock prices made investors nervous.
• Temperature fluctuation can affect plant growth.

Tremor is generally used to refer to a shaking or trembling movement, often associated with natural phenomena like earthquakes or medical conditions.

• The earthquake left a minor tremor that could still be felt days later.
• He felt a tremor in his hands due to nervousness.