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
destabilization
(ˌ)dē-ˌstā-bə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce destabilize (audio)
noun

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.
If the atmosphere destabilizes, a few pop-up thunderstorms could form near the Kansas City metro area late in the afternoon. — Kansas City Star, 8 July 2026 The suspense heading into July has centered on whether the semis could cool off and reset without a messy liquidation that destabilized the rest of the tape. — Michael Santoli, CNBC, 7 July 2026 The Saudis never favored the war, arguing that Iran would close the Strait, choke the world’s supply of oil, and destabilize the region. — Jim Edwards, Fortune, 1 July 2026 With that, several underlying issues also arise, such as unpredictable power spikes that threaten to destabilize voltage levels. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 6 July 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

Rhymes for destabilize

See All Rhymes for destabilize

Browse Nearby Words

dessus
destabilize
destain
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Destabilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destabilize. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on destabilize

Nglish: Translation of destabilize for Spanish Speakers

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