Wobble Meaning and Definition
Wobble
Pronunciation
/ˈwʊbəl/
Part of Speech
Verb, Noun
Definition
To move or cause to move unsteadily from side to side, or to describe something that does so. A wobble is a slight oscillation or vibration of something, often causing it to deviate from a straight line or consistent motion.
Examples
- The bicycle wobbled as I rode over the bumpy road.
- The laser cannon wobbled as it was being transported.
Synonyms
- Rock
- Sway
- Oscillate
Antonyms
- Steady
- Consistent
- Firm
Etymology
The word “wobble” has its roots in Old English, where it was used to describe the action of moving unsteadily. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a range of meanings, including the slight oscillation or vibration of an object.
Usage Notes
When using “wobble” as a verb, it is often used to describe a sudden or unexpected movement. For example, “The boat wobbled violently as the storm hit.” When used as a noun, “wobble” can refer to a consistent or repetitive movement, such as the wobble of a top.
Cultural References
The term “wobble” has been used in various forms of media, including films, literature, and music. For example, the phrase “Don’t get too cocky or you’ll start to wobble” is a popular trope in action movies.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To wobble the table: to cause something to get out of control or lose stability
Related Words or Phrases
- Vibrate
- Oscillate
- Rock
- Swing
Collocations
- Wobble through
- Wobble around
- Wobble back and forth
Frequency of Use
“Wobble” is a moderately common word, used frequently in informal settings and in certain technical contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Wobbel
- Wobbeling
- Wobblee