1. Out of equilibrium; not straight, level, or aligned properly; in a state of confusion or chaos. I felt a bit off-kilter for a while after receiving that blow to the head during football practice. The economy has remained off-kilter in many countries across Europe, even as the global economy has started to recover. Between my divorce, the death of my best friend, and the financial troubles at work, it seems like everything in my life has gone off-kilter recently.

2. Not working correctly or properly; out of order; out of w(h)ack. It sounds like your car's engine is a bit off-kilter. I'd recommend taking it to a mechanic before you go for any long drives.