What does shaky mean?
‘Shaky’ describes something that is not steady or secure. When used for a person or body part, it usually means trembling or unsteady because of fear, illness, fatigue, or nervousness: her voice became shaky as she tried to speak. It can also describe physical objects or foundations that are unstable. Figuratively, ‘shaky’ refers to plans, agreements, evidence, or confidence that are uncertain and may not hold up under scrutiny. The word often appears in expressions such as ‘a shaky start,’ ‘shaky ground,’ and ‘shaky hands.’ Because it conveys a moderate degree of instability rather than complete failure, ‘shaky’ is useful when describing something that appears workable but remains vulnerable or uncertain.
adjectiveUnsteady or unstable, especially because of weakness, nervousness, or lack of support. Figuratively, it describes something uncertain, unreliable, or liable to change.
- Moving unsteadily or trembling, as from fear, illness, weakness, or exhaustion.
- Not firm or secure, such as a structure, foundation, or physical object.
- Uncertain or wavering, especially regarding a plan, belief, promise, or level of confidence.
"She felt shaky after the long flight and sat down for a moment."
"His legs were shaky after the ordeal, and he sat carefully on the edge of the bed."
"The agreement remains shaky because neither side has fully accepted its terms."
‘Shaky’ can describe both trembling hands and a plan that may not hold together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shaky come from?
‘Shaky’ developed from the English verb ‘shake,’ in the sense of moving or trembling unsteadily. The adjective has been used in English since the seventeenth century, initially with the literal meaning of unsteady or tremulous. Its figurative use for uncertain plans, proofs, or promises developed later by analogy with the instability of a shaking object. Related forms include the noun ‘shaker,’ the derivative ‘shakiness,’ and the adverb ‘shakily.’
Related word forms
How shaky is actually used
‘Shaky’ is common in both formal and informal English. It often implies instability rather than a complete failure, and in figurative uses it suggests a situation or conviction that may not withstand pressure.