destabilize

verb

de·​sta·​bi·​lize (ˌ)dē-ˈstā-bə-ˌlīz 

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 

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

As tensions simmer, neighboring countries have been mediating between the two sides to avert a war, noting that any conflict could spread and destabilize the Middle East. —Kevin Liptak, CNN Money, 5 Feb. 2026

Something hidden comes to the surface, not to destabilize you, but to be handled with honesty and maturity. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Feb. 2026

Critics argue the violence and staffing shortages that have long plagued Los Padrinos have spread and are now destabilizing other facilities. —Jason Henry, Daily News, 1 Feb. 2026

The disaster has destabilized local utilities that for generations quietly kept faucets flowing in Altadena. —Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 31 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for destabilize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize