verb

destabilize

dee-STAY-bih-lyz

Destabilize (verb) means to make something, especially a government or region, unstable or unsettled. Example: “The coup attempted to destabilize the region.”

verb

To make something, especially a government or region, unstable or unsettled.

"The coup attempted to destabilize the region."

"Fake news can destabilize public trust in institutions."

How to use destabilize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo upset the balance or stability of something, often a government, economy, or situation.

Common pairings

destabilize the region destabilize a government politically destabilizing

Word forms

destabilized past tense, destabilizes singular

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The coup attempted to _____ the region.

Etymology

From de- ("reverse of") plus stabilize.

Synonyms

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destabilise

Related words

destabilise

Rhymes for destabilize

size maize prize Belize utilize capsize realize baptize idolize optimize monetize colonize

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Frequently asked questions

What does “destabilize” mean?

The word “destabilize” means to make something, especially a government or region, unstable or unsettled. In plain terms, to upset the balance or stability of something, often a government, economy, or situation.

How do you pronounce “destabilize”?

“Destabilize” is pronounced dee-STAY-bih-lyz (/diːˈsteɪbɪlaɪz/ in IPA).

How do you use “destabilize” in a sentence?

Here is “destabilize” used in a sentence: “The coup attempted to destabilize the region.”

What part of speech is “destabilize”?

“Destabilize” is a verb.

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