stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce stabilizer (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 Those who believe a weak tongue may be the culprit will need to look to tongue stabilizers, sometimes called tongue covers, sleeves or tubes. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 14 Oct. 2025 An internal compression pad and multiple pockets help maximize packing space in this lightweight spinner, which is crafted from water-repellent nylon and boasts a proprietary stabilizer to prevent wobbling. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025 Woolf said that those with the condition may also be given antidepressants to treat low mood or mood stabilizers to manage manic symptoms, which can include elevated mood, impulsive behavior and sleep difficulties. Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stabilizer

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stabilizer was in 1907

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stabilizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stabilizer. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

stabilizer

noun
sta·​bi·​liz·​er ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce stabilizer (audio)
: 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
: 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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