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

Abroad, its network of violent proxy groups in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza has destabilized the Middle East for decades. —The Week Us, TheWeek, 6 Apr. 2026

Climate change is already destabilizing this area. —Quanta Magazine, 6 Apr. 2026

As conflict escalates across the region and further destabilizes Lebanon with the possibility of long-term Israeli occupation, officials insist that elections are simply not feasible. —Jasmin Lilian Diab, The Conversation, 5 Apr. 2026

Now, the race is against China, adding pressure to move at a rate that could destabilize society if too many people are left behind. —Diane Brady, Fortune, 3 Apr. 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