destabilize

verb

de·​sta·​bi·​lize (ˌ)dē-ˈstā-bə-ˌlīz How to pronounce destabilize (audio)
destabilized; destabilizing; destabilizes

transitive verb

1
: to make unstable
2
: to cause (something, such as a government) to be incapable of functioning or surviving

Examples of destabilize in a Sentence

The group hoped the assassination of the new President would destabilize the government. Economists warn that the crisis could destabilize the nation's currency.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Forty million Americans live with diabetes, and heat can quickly drive dehydration, disrupt daily routines, and destabilize blood sugar, sometimes requiring urgent care. Anthony Nicome, STAT, 13 May 2026 Customers who feel destabilized financially by tariffs and global conflict have used the stores to try to find lower prices. Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2026 Traditional gentle drone landings are not well-suited for ships in motion because sudden vessel movement can destabilize the aircraft during contact. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 8 May 2026 Loss of sea ice could also destabilize currents that store heat and carbon in the ocean, accelerating global warming, the scientists said. Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for destabilize

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of destabilize was in 1924

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Cite this Entry

“Destabilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destabilize. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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