steadier

Steadier is the comparative form of the adjective steady. It describes a greater degree of stability or consistency than another subject. Steadier can apply to physical conditions, such as a steadier hand or grip, a steadier stance, or steadier movements; and to abstract concepts, such as steadier growth, steadier earnings, or a steadier recovery after a disruption.

Etymology and form: Steadier is formed by adding the suffix -er to steady, a common pattern for English comparatives. The base adjective steady traces back to senses of firmness and reliability; the sense of continuing reliability is carried into modern usage.

Usage: In neutral, informative contexts, steadier signals reduced fluctuation and greater predictability. It is commonly used in journalism, science, economics, and daily speech. It contrasts with shakier, more volatile, or less stable terms.

Synonyms include more stable, more even, and more reliable; antonyms include shakier and more unstable. Related forms are steadiness (noun) and steadily (adverb).

Examples: The climber kept a steadier grip after adjusting the rope. The quarterly earnings showed steadier growth than in the previous year. A steadier supply chain reduced production delays.

See also: steadiness, stability, consistency, reliability.