verb

waver

WAY-ver/ˈweɪvər/

To move unsteadily rather than remain fixed.

Her hand wavers between the two paths as she hesitates.

A modern adult woman pauses thoughtfully at a woodland path splitting into two equally inviting routes, body facing center with one hand half-extended uncertainly, no signposts or writing.

Etymology

waverMiddle Englishto be irresolute, show indecision

Middle English wayveren already described indecision. Its probable Scandinavian ancestry connects it with words for restlessness and hovering, linking an unsettled mind with the unsteady movement expressed by the verb’s physical senses.

In context

TED11:28

But I didn't waver, and I was persistent, and I eventually convinced one of them

I don't want children -- stop telling me I'll change my mind | Christen Reighter

More examples

Her reflection wavers in the rippling water.
The compass needle wavered before pointing north.
The acrobat's outstretched hand is wavering as she struggles to balance.

Forms

waver · wavers · wavered · wavering

Similar words

sway: Emphasizes broader back-and-forth movement, often gentle or rhythmic.
quiver: Emphasizes small, rapid trembling movements rather than drifting.
flicker: Especially describes flames or light changing rapidly and irregularly.