rhizoverbBeta
DictionarystabilizeMaking or becoming steady
verb

stabilize

STAY-buh-lyze/ˈsteɪbəlaɪz/

To make or become steady or less likely to change.

She slides a wedge under the short leg to stabilize the table.

Woman inserts wedge beneath short table leg until tabletop and glass become level, small before-tilt ghost line contrasts stable result; clear making steady action, no words or room.
Etymology
stabilLatinfirm, steadfast
+izeEnglishmake or become

The idea is making something firm enough to resist sudden change, originally applied to ships. The verb was probably formed from stability, though French stabiliser is another possible source.

In context

Tom Stanton12:19
the engine was off to a smooth start and took around 50 seconds to stabilize the tank pressure at around 0.45 bar
Liquid Air Engine

More examples

  • Prices usually stabilize once supply catches up with demand.
  • Doctors work to stabilize the patient's condition.
  • The tripod stabilizes the camera during long exposures.

Forms

stabilize · stabilizes · stabilized · stabilizing

stabilization noun — The process of making or becoming steady.

stabilizer noun — A device or substance that maintains steadiness.

Similar words

steady
Often stresses stopping physical shaking or calming emotional agitation.
balance
Focuses on distributing weight or forces to prevent tipping.