stagger

stagger [stag′ər]

vi.

[ME stakeren < ON stakra, to totter, intens. of staka, to push (for IE base see STAKE): akin to & prob. infl. in form by MDu staggeren]

1. to move unsteadily, as though about to collapse; totter, sway, or reel, as from a blow, fatigue, drunkenness, etc.

2. to lose determination, strength of purpose, etc.; hesitate; waver

vt.

1. to cause to stagger, as with a blow

2. to affect strongly with astonishment, horror, grief, etc.; overwhelm

3. to set, arrange, or incline alternately, as on either side of a line; make zigzag or alternating [to stagger the teeth of a saw]

4. to arrange (periods of activity, duties, etc.) so as to avoid crowding [to stagger employees' vacations]

5. Aeron. to set or arrange (airfoils, rotors, etc.) so that one is slightly ahead of another

n.

1. the act of staggering, or reeling, tottering, etc.

2. a staggered or zigzag arrangement

3. [pl., with sing. or pl. v.] any of several diseases or toxic conditions of horses, cattle, etc., characterized by a loss of coordination, and by staggering, falling, etc.: often with the

staggerer

n.