C1verb2K

Stabilize

UK /["/ˈsteɪbəlaɪz/","/ˈsteɪbəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈsteɪbəlaɪzd/","/ˈsteɪbəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈsteɪbəlaɪz/","/ˈsteɪbəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈsteɪbəlaɪzd/","/ˈsteɪbəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to become or to make something become steady and unlikely to change; to make something stable

In simple words: To make something steady or secure.

Examples

  • The patient's condition stabilized.
  • government measures to stabilize prices
  • Doctors stabilized the patient's condition.

Usage notes

Used in contexts like science, engineering, and emotional support. Not typically used in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

stabilize + object

Memory hint

Think of 'stable' — imagine a table with four strong legs that doesn't wobble.

Collocations

  • stabilize the economy
  • stabilize a situation
  • stabilize the equipment

Synonyms

  • secure
  • steady
  • balance
  • calm
  • normalize

Antonyms

  • destabilize
  • unstable
  • agitate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'stabilisation' (Spelling variation)
  • Using it without an object (e.g., 'stabilize before' instead of 'stabilize something before')
  • Incorrect tense usage (e.g., 'stabilized' instead of 'stabilise')