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.
The market became unsettled at the news of the recession.
high volatility; severe fluctuation
Finance-specific usage, referring to market instability and sharp price movements.
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.