falter etymology

Etymology

The word "falter" comes from the Middle English word "falteren," which is of unknown origin. It is possibly related to the Old French word "faillir," meaning "to fail," or to the Latin word "fallere," meaning "to deceive."

Meaning

"Faltering" refers to an unsteady or hesitant action or speech. It can indicate a lack of confidence, skill, or determination. It can also suggest a loss of strength or a feeling of weakness.

Origin

The use of "falter" to describe unsteady movement or speech can be traced back to the 14th century. It was originally used to describe the stumbling or limping of a horse or other animal. Over time, it came to be used metaphorically to refer to hesitant or unsure actions or words.

Examples of Usage

• "He faltered in his speech, unable to find the right words."
• "The runner faltered in the last mile, losing the lead."
• "Her resolve faltered as the challenges mounted."
• "The economy faltered, leading to widespread unemployment."
• "Her faith faltered in the face of adversity."

falter relate terms

• unfaltering

  Etymology Unfaltering comes from the Old English word unfealterende which is a combi

• falter

  Etymology The word falter comes from the Middle English word falteren which is of un

• stumble

  Etymology The word stumble comes from the Middle English word stomblen which is tho

• papillon

  Etymology The word papillon is derived from the French word papillon which means bu

• feint

  Etymology Old English fent a trick or stratagem Middle English feinte pretense d

• faint

  Etymology Middle English feynt from Old French feint from Vulgar Latin fincta make

• stammer

  Etymology Middle English stammeren from Old English stamerian stamerian Origin Ger

• mouth

  Etymology The word mouth comes from the Old English word mūþ which is believed to

• speak

  Etymology The word speak originates from the Old English word specan which means to

• hesitation

  Etymology From Middle English hesitacioun from Old French hesitacion from Latin hæsi