Economics Glossary

noun a continuous slow movement from one place to another

verb to be carried slowly by a current of air or water

• The boat began to drift aimlessly in the open sea.
• I love watching the clouds drift by on a lazy afternoon.
• Let's drift over to the park and hang out for a bit.
• Her mind started to drift away from the conversation as she daydreamed.

noun a substance that is easily vaporized at a relatively low temperature

adjective liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse

• The stock market is known for being volatile, with prices constantly fluctuating.
• Her mood can be quite volatile, so it's best to approach her with caution.
• The situation at the party got really volatile, so we decided to leave early.
• Their relationship was like a volatile chemical reaction, with sparks flying constantly.