Langimage
English

falter

|fal-ter|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈfɔltər/

🇬🇧

/ˈfɔːltə/

losing strength

Etymology
Etymology Information

'falter' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'falteren,' where 'falter-' meant 'to stagger or stumble.'

Historical Evolution

'falteren' transformed into the modern English word 'falter' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to stagger or stumble,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to hesitate or lose strength.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to lose strength or momentum.

Her voice faltered as she delivered the news.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to speak hesitantly or brokenly.

He faltered in his speech when he saw the audience.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35