stable

³stable

adj

sta·bler\-b(ə-)lər\sta·blest\-b(ə-)ləst\

Definition of STABLE

1

a : firmly established : fixed, steadfast <stable opinions> b : not changing or fluctuating : unvarying <in stable condition> c : permanent, enduring <stable civilizations>

2

a : steady in purpose : firm in resolution b : not subject to insecurity or emotional illness : sane, rational <a stable personality>

3

a (1) : placed so as to resist forces tending to cause motion or change of motion (2) : designed so as to develop forces that restore the original condition when disturbed from a condition of equilibrium or steady motion b (1) : not readily altering in chemical makeup or physical state <stable emulsions> (2) : not spontaneously radioactive

— sta·ble·ness \-bəl-nəs\ noun

— sta·bly \-b(ə-)lē\ adverb

Examples of STABLE

1. They have a stable relationship.
2. Children need to be raised in a stable environment.
3. Make sure the platform is stable.

Origin of STABLE

Middle English, from Anglo-French estable, stable, from Latin stabilis, from stare to stand

First Known Use: 13th century

Related to STABLE

Synonyms: bombproof, fast, firm, sound, stalwart, strong, sturdy

Antonyms: rickety, unsound, unstable, unsteady

Related Words: dependable, durable, reliable; infrangible, irrefragable, unbreakable; beefy, solid; cohesive, tough

Near Antonyms: infirm, insecure, weak; shaky, tottering, tottery, unbalanced, wobbly (also wabbly); unsubstantial

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at lasting

Other Aeronautics/Aerospace Terms

airway, apron, corridor, dirigible, fishtail, flat-hat, vector