# wobble

/ˈwɑbəɫ/ (US) · /wˈɒbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wobble
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

to move from side to side in an unsteady way. You use this when something is loose or about to fall over.

For teachers: to move unsteadily from side to side; to oscillate with an uneven or rocking motion. Often implies a lack of structural stability or balance.

## Examples

- The old table started to wobble when I sat down.
- The toddler took a few steps, but his legs began to wobble and he sat down on the carpet.
- As the washing machine entered its final spin cycle, the uneven load caused the entire appliance to wobble violently against the kitchen cabinets.

## Usage notes

- The verb is intransitive but can be used transitively when meaning 'to cause something to move unsteadily'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.