precariousness

noun

pri-ˈker-ē-əs-nəs How to pronounce precariousness (audio)
Definition of precariousnessnext
as in instability
the quality or state of not being firmly fixed in position she quickly moved the china teapot after noticing its precariousness on the shelf

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of precariousness Ultimately, the biggest cause for fear in our household was not regional instability but the precariousness of expatriate life itself. — Omnia Al Desoukie, New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2026 Shifting comments from the Republican president and his top aides are adding to the precariousness of the 12-day-old conflict, which is impacting nearly every corner of the Middle East and causing economic tremors around the globe. — Chicago Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026 William Grimes wrote before that moment, introducing a distinctly American voice shaped by the horrors of enslavement in the South and the precariousness of freedom in the North. — Regina E. Mason, The Atlantic, 7 Mar. 2026 The exhibition reflects on precariousness and interconnectedness in today’s world. — Photovogue, Vogue, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for precariousness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precariousness
instability
Noun
  • Stapp's answer to that instability is to stop building around policy at all.
    — Keely Cat-Wells, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • Some state officials criticized the move as adding unneeded instability and uncertainty to running elections.
    — Oren Oppenheim, ABC News, 21 July 2026
Definition of instability

Browse Nearby Words

precarious
precariousness
precaution
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Cite this Entry

“Precariousness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precariousness. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on precariousness

Nglish: Translation of precariousness for Spanish Speakers

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