Pronunciation: [tˈɒtəɹɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "tottering" is spelled with two "t"s and two "e"s. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ˈtɒtərɪŋ/. The sound "t" is pronounced with a light tap of the tongue on the roof of the mouth, while the "o" sound is made with an open mouth and rounded lips. The two "t"s are pronounced separately, and the "e" sound is short and light. The final "ing" is pronounced with a nasal "n" sound and a hard "g" sound.
Tottering is an adjective that describes something or someone that is in an unsteady or precarious state, often characterized by a lack of balance or stability. It conveys the idea of being on the verge of toppling over or collapsing due to a weak or unstable foundation.
When applied to objects, tottering suggests that they are wobbling or swaying, unable to stay firmly in place. For instance, a tottering stack of dishes might imply that they are on the verge of falling and breaking, as if they were teetering on the edge of a table. Similarly, a tottering skyscraper could refer to a building that is unstable or unsafe, with its structure compromised and at risk of collapse.
Regarding people, tottering refers to individuals who are walking or standing with unsteady or faltering steps. This could be due to physical weakness, illness, or old age. A tottering elderly person, for example, might struggle to maintain their balance and appear unsteady on their feet.
Metaphorically, tottering can also describe situations or institutions that are on the brink of failure or collapse. For instance, a tottering economy might indicate one that is unstable, with signs of impending financial crisis. Similarly, a tottering political regime might imply a government that is weak and likely to fall due to internal or external pressures.
Overall, tottering conveys a sense of instability, uncertainty, and vulnerability, warning of potential danger or imminent collapse.
The word "tottering" has its origins in Middle English. It is derived from the verb "toter", which meant "to stagger or waver". This verb can be traced back to the Old English word "totian", meaning "to totter or shake.” The Old English term itself might have been influenced by the Old Norse word "totra", which also meant "to totter". Over time, "tottering" came to refer to the act of swaying unsteadily or walking with an unsteady gait.
