the.com/falter
Confidence developing a stutter, mid-stride, right when everyone's watching.
means To lose strength, steadiness, or resolve — wavering in movement, voice, or commitment.
from From Middle English falteren, likely tied to the idea of stumbling or folding, kin to the wobble of legs that no longer trust the ground.
Three failuresIt hits the feet, the voice, and the will.
Not collapseA falter recovers; a fall does not.
Telltale signThe pause before doubt becomes visible.