Doddering

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Exhibiting a shaky or unsteady gait typically associated with old age and physical weakness
2. Displaying signs of decreased coordination and stability commonly linked to aging and frailty
3. Showing a tremulous or wobbling manner often attributed to advanced age and lack of physical strength

Etymology: "Doddering" is the present participle of "dodder," a verb meaning to tremble or shake. As an adjective, it describes a person whose limbs and head have begun to wobble and whose movements have grown unsteady, as if they no longer control their body reliably. The verb's own origin is uncertain. It is often compared with "totter," which shares the sense of unsteady movement, but no firm line of descent between the two has been established, so any relationship remains a suggestion rather than a proven fact.

Synonyms: feeble, senile, shuffling

Antonyms: youthful, energetic