Stabilize

/ˈsteɪbəlaɪz/ verb

Definition

To stabilize something is to make it steady, secure, or less likely to change suddenly. It can refer to physical objects, finances, emotions, or situations.

Etymology

From French “stabiliser,” from Latin “stabilis” meaning “firm, steady,” plus the verb-forming suffix “-ize.” The idea is turning something into a more stable state.

Kelly Says

When doctors ‘stabilize’ a patient or governments ‘stabilize’ an economy, they’re all doing the same thing: stopping wild swings and bringing things back to balance. It’s like putting training wheels on a bike so it stops tipping over.

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