destabilize

[ dee-stey-buh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, de·sta·bi·lized, de·sta·bi·liz·ing.

1. to make unstable; rid of stabilizing attributes:

   conflicts that tend to destabilize world peace.

destabilize

/ diːˈsteɪbɪˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to undermine or subvert (a government, economy, etc) so as to cause unrest or collapse

Derived Forms

• ˌdestabiliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• de·stabi·li·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of destabilize¹

First recorded in 1930–35; de- + stabilize

Example Sentences

But long before Musk's involvement in aiding Trump, Musk destabilized X, making it a breeding ground for more hate speech, harassment and unchecked artificial intelligence.

From Salon

This is exactly what Musk, Murdoch, Putin, and destabilizing forces from around the world are banking on.

From Salon

Asked what his message was for the Russians, Raffensperger said that their mission was to try to destabilize America, but “Georgia is not going to be intimidated.”

From Los Angeles Times

Too much soil on one side could destabilize the structure, causing it to topple, he said, “which would be really, really sad.”

From Los Angeles Times

It's a destabilizing development, but the show handles it with care.

From Salon

Related Words

• diminish
• lessen
• thwart
• undermine