precariousness
|pre-car-i-ous-ness|
C1
🇺🇸
/prɪˈkɛriəsnəs/
🇬🇧
/prɪˈkeəriəsnəs/
(precarious)
unstable or uncertain
Etymology
Etymology Information
'precarious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'precarius,' where 'precari' meant 'to pray or entreat.'
Historical Evolution
'precarius' transformed into the French word 'précaire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'precarious' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'dependent on the will of another,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'uncertain or unstable.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or condition of being uncertain, unstable, or insecure.
The precariousness of the situation made everyone anxious.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/11 18:51