intransitive verb

1. to move unsteadily, as though about to collapse; totter, sway, or reel, as from a blow, fatigue, drunkenness, etc.
2. to lose determination, strength of purpose, etc.; hesitate; waver

Etymology: ME stakeren < ON stakra, to totter, intens. of staka, to push (for IE base see stake): akin to & prob. infl. in form by MDu staggeren

transitive verb

1. to cause to stagger, as with a blow
2. to affect strongly with astonishment, horror, grief, etc.; overwhelm
3. to set, arrange, or incline alternately, as on either side of a line; make zigzag or alternating to stagger the teeth of a saw
4. to arrange (periods of activity, duties, etc.) so as to avoid crowding to stagger employees' vacations
5. Aeron. to set or arrange (airfoils, rotors, etc.) so that one is slightly ahead of another

noun

1. the act of staggering, or reeling, tottering, etc.
2. a staggered or zigzag arrangement
3. any of several diseases or toxic conditions of horses, cattle, etc., characterized by a loss of coordination, and by staggering, falling, etc.: often with the