Teeters

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Moves or sways in an unsteady way, usually to and fro ; appears to be unsure or wavering in opinion, decision, or condition
2. Wobbles or trembles on the edge of stability ; shows hesitation or lack of firm determination
3. Shifts precariously from side to side as if about to fall ; lives in a state of doubt, unable to decide firmly

Etymology: "Teeters" is the third-person singular present form of "teeter," so it is the same verb as "teeter," which is an alteration of "titter." Titter, meaning to giggle or laugh in a restrained way, is an older and separate word, and the change from its sound to the wobbling sense of "teeter" happened in English itself rather than through a foreign language. The link to "titter" makes sense once you picture the motion. A thing that teeters rocks back and forth, tipping one way and then the other, much as a person might sway while holding back a laugh. The rocking movement and the nervous, unsteady sound share a rhythmic, back-and-forth quality, which helps explain why the two words became connected. From the physical sense of swaying on an edge came the figurative use: someone who teeters between two choices is poised on the brink, unable to commit firmly to either side.

Synonyms: wobbles, sways, totters, oscillates

Antonyms: stabilizes, balances