adjective

inconstant

in-KAHN-stunt/ɪnˈkɑːnstənt/

Prone to change rather than remain steady or faithful.

The inconstant weather keeps switching between sunshine and rain.

A four-panel sequence shows the weather repeatedly switching between sunshine and rain over the same small garden bench.

Etymology

inLatinnot

+conLatintogether

+stantLatinto stand

Standing together supplied the image of standing firm or remaining steadfast. The negative prefix reverses that firmness: something inconstant changes rather than remaining steady.

In context

Enhanced Public Domain302:40

how inconstant are your feelings but a moment ago you were moved by my representations and why do you again harden yourself to my complaints

1800s Fiction Audiobook: Mary Shelley - Frankenstein

More examples

Her inconstant moods make it difficult to know what to expect.
The candidate struggles to hold on to inconstant public support.
He proves an inconstant friend, disappearing whenever she needs help.

Forms

inconstant

inconstancy noun — The tendency to change or waver.

Similar words

changeable: Emphasizes frequent changes without necessarily suggesting a lack of loyalty.
fickle: Suggests sudden changes in loyalty, affection, or preference.
unsteady: Emphasizes a lack of stability rather than shifting loyalty.