Synonyms for

Shaky

Verb / ˈʃeɪki: / Another word for shaky — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

likely to shake or tremble; not firm or steady

Synonyms & similar words

shivering rickety precarious wobbly wonky trembling unstable trembling wobbly insecure unsettled flimsy weak frail shivering quivering quaky uneasy nervous uncertain faltering vacillating irresolute wavering tremulous jittery

Synonyms by register

Formal

unstable precarious unsteady wobbly

Informal

rickety dodgy wonky loose

Literary

tremulous quivering unsettled

Antonyms

steady stable firm solid secure confident assured

Common collocations

  • shaky ground
  • shaky start
  • shaky economy
  • shaky hand
  • shaky bridge
  • shaky foundations
  • shaky voice

Word family

noun shakiness
adjective shaky
adverb shakily

Usage note

Often used to describe something physically unstable or a situation that is uncertain. Can also describe a person's physical state, like a shaky hand.

Example sentences

  1. The old table was shaky and wobbled when you touched it.
  2. I was feeling shaky after drinking too much coffee.
  3. The little dog was so shaky after being outside in the cold.
  4. The bridge was shaky and made me feel nervous.
  5. The ground felt shaky during the earthquake.

Quotes

  • My voice still sounds shaky, but I'm not afraid anymore.
  • The ground beneath us felt shaky and uncertain.
  • I felt so shaky and nervous before giving my speech.

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