stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər 

plural stabilizers

: one that stabilizes something: such as

a

: a substance added to another substance (such as an explosive or plastic) or to a system (such as an emulsion) to prevent or delay an unwanted alteration of physical state

b

: a gyroscope device to keep ships steady in a heavy sea

c

: an airfoil providing stability for an airplane

specifically : the fixed horizontal member of the tail assembly see airplane illustration

Examples of stabilizer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The yacht is also fitted with two pairs of stabilizers to ensure comfort at sea and at anchor. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 27 Oct. 2025

If comfort is your priority, look for newer or refurbished ships with stabilizers, spacious cabins, multiple dining venues, and wellness facilities. —Ashton Palmer, Travel + Leisure, 24 Oct. 2025

Based on their findings, the writers of this study caution that while the presence of some chemicals such as UV-stabilizers to prevent fading and flame retardants may be known, others can be introduced to textiles unintentionally through fiber processing or contamination. —Jennifer Bringle, Sourcing Journal, 22 Oct. 2025

The following day, two United Airlines planes collided at Chicago O'Hare International Airport when one plane's wing clipped another plane's rear stabilizer on the tarmac. —Christopher Cann, USA Today, 19 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stabilizer

• advertiser
• analyser
• analyzer
• appetizer
• atomizer
• breathalyzer
• colonizer
• crystallizer
• digitizer
• equalizer
• fertilizer
• localizer

Kids Definition

stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər 

: one (as a chemical or a device) that stabilizes something

especially : a fixed surface for stabilizing the motion of an airplane

Medical Definition

stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er

variants also British stabiliser

ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər 

: one that stabilizes something

especially : a substance added to another substance or to a system (as an emulsion) to prevent or retard an unwanted alteration of physical state