titubātiō

Labare (the ancient Gothic word, slipan, from λωφᾶν), denotes tottering, with reference to the whole body, which rests on no firm basis; titubare (from ταφεῖν, τυφλός), with reference to the feet, which refuse their service, and stagger; vacillare (ἧκα) with reference to the upper part of the body, which wants its upright, steady, secure position; lastly, nutare (from νεύειν) with reference to the head, which seems ready to fall off. The titubans threatens to sink to the ground; the vacillans, to fall over. Titubatio betrays bodily weakness; vacillatio, want of external dignity, and a steady carriage. (iii. 62.)