Use 'rickety' to describe objects that seem unreliable due to physical weakness or age. The rickety bridge swayed ominously in the wind.
Pro Tip 2/3
Visual Impression
'Rickety' often implies that something looks old, worn, or on the verge of collapse. The rickety barn was a landmark of the abandoned farmstead.
Pro Tip 3/3
Metaphorical Use
Sometimes 'rickety' is used metaphorically to describe things lacking stability, like plans or relationships. Their rickety alliance was based on very little common ground.