English Dictionary

Definition of “kilter

kilter (ˈkɪltəPronunciation for kilter or kelter

Definitions

noun

  1. working order or alignment (esp in the phrases off kilter, out of kilter)

Word Origin

C17: origin unknown

Usage examples

  • Stefan looks like he has been slightly thrown off kilter again.
    Sean Thomas, THE CHEEK PERFORATION DANCE (2002)
  • A steadily-deteriorating fiscal balance throws all macroeconomic variables out of kilter.
    Business Today (2000)
  • But in the second race because the blade was off kilter I had about eight little bobbles.
    CBC (2004)
  • Scales of justice out of kilter By Steven King email: featureseditor@belfasttelegraph.
    Belfast Telegraph (2003)
  • Their lines of sight can be out of kilter by as much as 30 degrees, making it impossible for them to be `watching' the same dream image.
    Paul Martin, COUNTING SHEEP: The Science and Pleasures of Sleep and Dreams (2002)

Browse dictionary