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wanken

totter; stagger; reel

verb VANK-en Rare
Body & Health Movement

Also means

waver (figurative)

Usage Note

wanken describes unsteady movement on the verge of falling, from physical weakness or shock. The set phrase weder wanken noch weichen means to hold firm. Contrast with taumeln (more chaotic reeling).

Examples

"Er wankte, konnte sich aber am Geländer festhalten."

Natural Translation

He tottered but managed to hold on to the railing.

Literal Translation

He tottered but could himself on-the railing hold.

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