verb
destabilize
dee-STAY-buh-lyze/ˌdiːˈsteɪbəlaɪz/
Make something less stable or secure.
Removing the supporting block destabilizes the tower, causing it to tilt.
Etymology
The reversing prefix de- turns “make steady” into “deprive of stability.” The verb was used for political systems and markets as well as physical substances, extending instability beyond literal unsteadiness.
In context
NATO was cutting the precipitation off of Iran thus affecting their food supplies thus affecting their populations thus helping to destabilize their nation
More examples
- Removing this support could destabilize the entire structure.
- The banking crisis destabilized the country's economy.
- False rumors risk destabilizing the fragile peace.
Forms
destabilize · destabilizes · destabilized · destabilizing
destabilization noun — The process of making something less stable.
Similar words
- undermine
- Emphasizes weakening foundations or support, often gradually or secretly.
- weaken
- Means reducing strength, not necessarily upsetting balance or stability.
- unsettle
- Often emphasizes disturbing someone's confidence, comfort, or emotional balance.