Falter
Verb
Definition: To waver or move in an uncertain manner.
Definition: To hesitate or falter in speech or action.
Synonyms: Waver, Hesitate, Stumble, Stutter
Antonyms: Continue, Persevere, Proceed
Examples:
- She faltered as she walked across the narrow bridge.
- He started to falter in his speech when he saw the large audience.
Mnemonics:
- Think of a person trying to walk on a tightrope and faltering.
- Imagine someone giving a speech and faltering when they forget their lines.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'falteren', of Germanic origin; related to 'faldern' (Old Norse) and 'falderen' (Dutch).
Historical Usage:The word has been used in English since the 14th century, primarily with the meaning of stumbling or stumbling in speech.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Faltering steps"
Explanation:Refers to uncertain or hesitant movements.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'falter' with 'fault'
Explanation:'Falter' refers to wavering or hesitating, while 'fault' refers to something being wrong or responsible for a mistake.