precarity

American  

[pri-kair-i-tee] / prɪˈkɛər ɪ ti /

noun

1. a state of existence in which material provision and psychological wellness are adversely affected by a lack of regular or secure income.

   The precarity that defines this socially vulnerable demographic cannot be ignored.

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Usage

What is precarity? Precarity is a state of existence in which someone’s mental health or financial security is out of their control because they don’t have a regular income. A person who cannot find regular work will have a hard time paying their bills. Equally, this could affect their mental health, causing anxiety, worry, anger, and other negative emotions. Someone in this situation is in a precarious, or uncertain, position. They are experiencing precarity. Precarity can also be used to describe businesses and financial markets. For example, if you want to invest in a public company, but the company’s market is somewhat stagnant, your investment might be described as precarious and the market as filled with precarity. Example: In my neighborhood, a lot of people experience precarity and are often looking for work.

Etymology

Origin of precarity

First recorded in 1955–60; precar(ious) ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

precarity

But the notion of a woman with a prenup and wealthy lineages heading into real financial precarity was dubious.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 21, 2026

Relieving this financial precarity also creates the time, space, energy and resources needed to be engaged citizens.

From Salon ● Jun. 20, 2026

Further cross-border exchanges between the two sides have strained the truce agreement, highlighting the precarity of the ceasefire.

From BBC ● Apr. 25, 2026

The repercussions of the shifting landscape in these cities worsened for the local population during the Covid-19 pandemic, “highlighting the housing precarity faced by vulnerable social groups,” the report said.

From Barron's ● Dec. 23, 2025

For all that it deals with systemic racism and economic precarity, “The Payback” is a terrifically fun book that made me laugh out loud at least once every chapter.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 10, 2025