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.

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