precarious

1. Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.

   synonyms:unstablehazardous

2. Dependent on chance; uncertain.

   synonyms:uncertaindubious

The word 'precarious' comes from the Latin word 'precarius,' meaning 'obtained by prayer or begging,' which evolved to signify something that is dependent on the will of another, leading to its modern connotation of instability.

Everyday use, often employed in discussions about risk, safety, and uncertainty in various situations.

While 'precarious' is not used in daily conversation by everyone, it appears frequently in literature, news articles, and discussions about safety, economics, and social issues.

The precarious balance of the stack of books made it impossible to move without causing a mess.

Many workers find themselves in precarious jobs with little job security and benefits.

The climbers faced a precarious ascent as they navigated the steep and rocky terrain.

The term 'precarious' has a fascinating history that ties back to its Latin roots, emphasizing dependency and uncertainty. Today, it's used to describe everything from a wobbly chair to the financial instability many experience in today's economy. It's a word that captures the essence of life’s unpredictability, reminding us to tread carefully in various aspects of our existence. So next time you feel on shaky ground, remember that you're not alone in this precarious dance we call life!