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.
Earth's gravitational influence could alter this tumbling pattern, potentially triggering landslides over thousands of years as surface materials gradually destabilize. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 As a result, the number of informal workers rose above 2 billion in 2023, according to ILO estimates, destabilizing the global employment picture. David T. Nudelman, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Republicans say these bans on voter ID and hand counting, even if approved by voters at the local level, undermines voters’ trust in and destabilizes the democratic process. Kenneth Schrupp | The Center Square, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 1 Nov. 2024 Ramses vocally condemned the actions of the American military, specifically in destabilizing less-powerful countries and inflicting violence on people living in said countries. Alex Abad-Santos, Vox, 31 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near destabilize

Cite this Entry

“Destabilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destabilize. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

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