American Dictionary

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Definition stagger in American English

stagger verb

verb
/ˈstæɡər/
1

to walk in an uncontrolled way, as if you are going to fall over

Example

She staggered and fell.

Example

He gave her a slight push, and she staggered backward.

Example

She picked up her case and staggered to the door.

Example

She was coming back, staggering under the weight of a large suitcase.

Example

The man staggered to his feet and ran away.

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2

to surprise and shock someone

Example

Rory was staggered by his answer.

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3

to arrange objects so that they are not at the same height or are not in a straight line

Example

The seats are staggered so you can see reasonably well.

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4

to arrange for events or activities to start at different times

Synonyms and related words
Example

He staggers on as president, despite his increasing frailty.

Example

The museum is staggering under debts of nearly $5 million.

Synonyms and related words
Definition stagger in American English