Wavering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
wavering
[หweษชvษrษชล ]
Definitions
indecision
To waver means to be uncertain between two choices or opinions. It can also indicate a lack of determination or resolve.
Synonyms
fluctuate, hesitate, vacillate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wavering |
Use when someone is unsure or not steady in their thoughts, decisions or feelings. Often implies a lack of confidence.
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| hesitate |
Use when someone pauses or delays in making a decision or action, often because of uncertainty or nervousness.
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| vacillate |
Use when describing someone who alternates or switches between different opinions, decisions or actions. Often used in a formal context.
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| fluctuate |
Use when describing things that change frequently, especially in a quantitative sense, such as numbers, prices, or levels.
|
Examples of usage
- She wavered between accepting the job offer and staying in her current position.
- His wavering support for the project made it difficult to move forward.
movement
When used to describe movement, wavering refers to an unsteady or shaky motion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wavering |
When someone is uncertain or indecisive about something, or when something is not stable.
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| quiver |
Describes slight, rapid movements, usually due to emotion or cold.
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| tremble |
When someone or something shakes uncontrollably, often due to fear, cold, or weakness.
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| fluctuate |
Used when describing changes in levels, amounts, or numbers that go up and down frequently.
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Examples of usage
- The flame of the candle was wavering in the breeze.
- Her voice wavered with emotion as she spoke.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Wavering can often indicate indecision, which is a common psychological experience when faced with choices or dilemmas.
- Studies show that individuals who waver may experience increased anxiety, as they weigh potential outcomes.
- Wavering may also serve a protective function, allowing people time to gather more information before making a decision.
Literature
- In literature, characters who waver often represent depth and complexity, showcasing human struggles with choices.
- The theme of wavering is prominent in tragic literature, where characters face moral dilemmas that lead to profound consequences.
- Classic novels frequently depict protagonists who waver, illustrating the internal conflict between duty and desire.
Pop Culture
- In movies, a character's wavering decision often builds tension, as audiences anticipate which choice will ultimately be made.
- Songs about love often discuss wavering feelings, capturing the emotional turmoil of uncertain relationships.
- Reality television often features contestants wavering in their choices, adding drama and unpredictability to the narrative.
Science
- In physics, 'wavering' can describe the behavior of light waves as they pass through different mediums, demonstrating refraction.
- The concept of wavering is also relevant in studies of animal behavior, particularly in decision-making under uncertainty.
- Researchers have explored how wavering can be a sign of adaptive strategies in evolutionary biology, helping species survive.
Origin of 'wavering'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'wavering' comes from the Old English 'wafrian', which means 'to fluctuate or sway'.
- It has connections to the Middle English word 'waver', which was used to describe physical swaying.
- The term has been in use since the 14th century, reflecting both physical and emotional uncertainty.
The word 'wavering' is derived from the Middle English word 'waveren', which means 'to move to and fro'. It originated from the Old Norse 'vafra', meaning 'to flicker'. Over time, 'wavering' has come to signify both indecision and unsteady movement, capturing the essence of uncertainty and fluctuation.
See also: airwaves, wave, wavelength, wavelet, wavelike, wavenumber, waver, wavy.