stabilize
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈsteɪbəlaɪz/
KK: /ˈsteɪbəˌlaɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become steady and not change or move suddenly.
Example
The economy began to stabilize after the recession.
Tense Forms
Past: stabilized
Past Participle: stabilized
Conversation
Have you noticed how things seem to stabilize after a while?
Yeah, I think it's all about getting used to the changes.
Exactly! It feels good when life starts to stabilize again.
For sure, it brings a sense of peace.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
settle
balance
secure
Antonyms
wobble
fluctuate
unstable
transitive verb
Definition
To make something steady or firm so that it does not change or move easily.
Example
The engineer worked to stabilize the structure after the earthquake.
Tense Forms
Past: stabilized
Past Participle: stabilized
Conversation
I heard they are trying to stabilize the prices of groceries this year.
Yeah, that would be nice! Everything seems so expensive lately.
Exactly! It's hard to keep track of our budget if prices keep changing.
Root Explanation
Stabilize → It is formed from "stabilis" (meaning stable or firm) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to cause to be). The word "stabilize" means to make something stable or firm.
Memory Tip
Think of making something 'firm' or 'stable' — 'stabilis' means stable, and '-ize' means to make.
Visually Confused Words
destabilize
labilize