falter
verb (used without object)
to hesitate or waver in action, purpose, intent, etc.; give way.
falteringly
-
a word derived from
falter.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Didi falteringly answers, “Tell him . . . tell him you saw us.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 29, 2025
Morris replies, falteringly, “I think that Jeffrey’s account is suspect. It really seems internally inconsistent and not entirely believable. Do I believe that means there were no intruders in the house? Maybe.”
From Slate ● Oct. 2, 2020
He coordinated Ali’s poignant appearance at the Opening Ceremonies of the Summer Games in Atlanta in 1996, when Ali falteringly lifted a torch to light the Olympic flame.
From Washington Post ● Dec. 17, 2016
But why would anyone turn over important business to someone who speaks as falteringly as this guy does?
From New York Times ● Dec. 9, 2012
Ruby," I said to her, falteringly, "you're the most fantastic, self-willed, imperious little person I ever met with, and I want to make just one more appeal to you.
From The Beckoning Hand and Other Stories by Grant Allen
