Faltering

Describing something that is losing strength or momentum, becoming hesitant or unsteady. It suggests a process or action that is experiencing difficulty, potentially leading to failure or discontinuation. It can apply to physical actions (e.g., a faltering step), emotional states (e.g., a faltering voice), or processes (e.g., a faltering economy). The implication often involves a decline from a previous state of strength or stability. It signals vulnerability or uncertainty. It can also be used figuratively to represent a decline in confidence or resolve.

Faltering meaning with examples

• His voice, previously booming, began to falter as he confessed his deepest fears. He found himself struggling to maintain his composure, the weight of the secret making his delivery hesitant. His faltering words betrayed his mounting anxiety and remorse.
• The old engine's performance began to falter, its rhythmic chugs becoming irregular and weak. The boat's progress slowed considerably. The passengers became concerned as it started losing momentum, before finally coming to a halt.
• With the investigation nearing its conclusion, public support for the defense began to falter. Critics were openly questioning the evidence and the defendant's narrative as the community started to sway to the other side.
• The runner's pace started to falter as the marathon neared its end. Exhaustion was setting in; his legs felt heavy; his breath came in ragged gasps. He managed to push through and ultimately complete the race.
• During the economic downturn, consumer confidence began to falter, leading to a decrease in spending and investments. Businesses cut back on production to try and maintain a reasonable profit during uncertain times.