noun
disequilibrium
dis-ee-kwih-LIB-ree-um/ˌdɪsˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/
A state of lacking balance or stability.
The scale's disequilibrium leaves the heavily loaded pan lower than the other.
Etymology
Equal balance supplies the image of level scales; dis- marks its absence or destruction. The word applies this loss of balance to a broader state of instability.
In context
it's a disequilibrium situation. Um and what they've done is created an excess supply of money in excess of people's demand for it.
More examples
- A sudden shortage creates disequilibrium in the market.
- She experiences emotional disequilibrium after losing her job.
- Uneven heating throws the system into disequilibrium.
Forms
disequilibrium · disequilibria · disequilibriums
Similar words
- imbalance
- Often emphasizes unequal amounts or forces rather than general instability.
- instability
- Emphasizes susceptibility to disruption or change rather than unequal balance.
- unsteadiness
- Usually describes difficulty remaining physically steady or moving securely.