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
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The problem with that stance: Lowering interest rates can also trigger inflation, potentially destabilizing the economy. Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025 In a recent report, the security firm highlighted how one group in particular, the 5 Segond/UVD gang, has demonstrated its ability to destabilize Haiti, threaten U.S. interests and expand its operations across international borders. Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025 While at the annual G20 Summit in Cape Town, the group of world leaders is taken hostage by a group of crypto bros, led by The Boys' Antony Starr, in an attempt to destabilize the world economy. Jessica Wang, EW.com, 11 Apr. 2025 The thriller is set in the shady world of ex-special forces, where outcasts Kelly Frost, Rachel Chan, and Inferno unite to stop a billionaire’s plot to destabilize Hong Kong. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 11 Apr. 2025 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 27 Apr. 2025.

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