to wobble
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to wobble
To be unstable and move uncontrollably back and forth because something is not fixed firmly. This can refer to furniture, teeth, or other objects.
Der Tisch wackelt, weil eines der Beine zu kurz ist.
The table wobbles because one of the legs is too short.
to be shaky
In a figurative sense: to be uncertain, at risk, or no longer stable. Often refers to positions, plans, or situations.
Nach der Niederlagenserie wackelt der Stuhl des Trainers gewaltig.
After the series of defeats, the coach's position is extremely shaky.
to wiggle
To intentionally move rhythmically or tremblingly back and forth. It can be a gesture of joy or a dance movement.
Der Hund wackelte aufgeregt mit dem Schwanz, als er seinen Besitzer sah.
The dog excitedly wagged its tail when it saw its owner.
'Wackeln' is an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct accusative object. You cannot say 'den Tisch wackeln' (to wobble the table). To express that you make something wobble, use the construction 'an etwas (Dativ) wackeln' (to wiggle/wobble something).
Das Kind wackelt schon seit Tagen an seinem lockeren Zahn.
The child has been wiggling his loose tooth for days.
You can tell whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended from the subject. If the subject is a concrete object like 'Tisch' (table) or 'Zahn' (tooth), the literal meaning is intended. If the subject is abstract like 'Plan' (plan), 'Position' (position), or 'Arbeitsplatz' (job), it is the figurative meaning of being uncertain or at risk.
Sein Arbeitsplatz wackelt nach dem Streit mit dem Chef.
His job is shaky after the argument with the boss.
When an intentional, often rhythmic movement is meant, 'wackeln' is often used with the preposition 'mit' (with) and a dative object. Typical examples are 'mit dem Schwanz wackeln' (to wag one's tail) or 'mit den Hüften wackeln' (to wiggle one's hips).
Beim Tanzen wackelte sie rhythmisch mit den Schultern.
While dancing, she rhythmically wiggled her shoulders.
to sway / fluctuate / waver
Schwanken and wackeln both describe unstable movement. Schwanken usually emphasizes that something as a whole tilts back and forth. Wackeln is especially appropriate when something is unstable because of a loose connection or inadequate fastening and moves uncontrollably.
Der hohe Mast wackelt, weil die Schrauben an seinem Fuß locker sind.
The tall mast wobbles because the screws at its base are loose.
Der hohe Mast schwankt bei starkem Wind deutlich hin und her.
The tall mast sways noticeably back and forth in the strong wind.
