fal ‧ ter /ˈfɔːltə $ ˈfɒːltər/ BrE AmE verb
[ Date: 1300-1400 ; Origin: Perhaps from a Scandinavian language ]
1 . [intransitive] to become weaker and unable to continue in an effective way:
The economy is showing signs of faltering.
My mother’s grip upon the household never faltered.
2 . [intransitive and transitive] to speak in a voice that sounds weak and uncertain, and keeps stopping:
Laurie’s voice faltered as she tried to thank him.
‘I can’t,’ she faltered.
3 . [intransitive] to become less certain and determined that you want to do something:
We must not falter in our resolve.
4 . [intransitive] to stop walking or to walk in an unsteady way because you suddenly feel weak or afraid:
She faltered for a moment.