standing on tiptoe; unsteady step
Literally describes the physical state of being on the balls of the feet, often implying an unstable or ready-to-move posture. Commonly used in the phrase 浮き足立つ (to be on tiptoe, to be restless).
He quietly left the room on tiptoe.
restlessness; unsettled state; readiness to flee
Figurative extension of the physical sense, describing a mental state of agitation, anxiety, or eagerness to escape. Often appears in the expression 浮き足立つ.
high volatility; severe fluctuation
Finance-specific usage, referring to market instability and sharp price movements.
The market became unsettled at the news of the recession.
The foreign exchange market continues to be highly volatile.
be poised to flee; become restless; get agitated
Standard kanji spelling.
Variant spelling; less common but still used.
Compound of 浮き (uki, 'floating') + 足 (ashi, 'foot'), literally 'floating foot'. The figurative senses derive from the image of being unsteady or ready to move.