get out of kilter

1. To become out of equilibrium; to become not straight, level, or aligned properly; to be in a state of chaos or confusion. Between my divorce, the death of my best friend, and the financial troubles at work, it seems like everything in my life has gotten out of kilter recently. John got a little out of kilter after being knocked in the head in football practice earlier. I'm sorry, I was sleeping all day. I got out of kilter when I traveled overseas, and I still haven't recovered.

2. To stop working correctly or properly; to be or become out of order; to be out of w(h)ack. It sounds like your car's engine has gotten a bit out of kilter. I'd recommend taking it to a mechanic before you go for any long drives. A: "How did the washing machine get out of kilter?" B: "I don't know, but these clothes are all sopping wet and don't smell clean!" Just give that ol' TV a good smack when it gets out of kilter.