destabilize
UK: diːˈsteɪbəlaɪz | US: diːˈsteɪbəlaɪz
vt. to make something unstable or less secure
vt. to undermine the structure or functioning of a system
The word "destabilize" combines the Latin-derived prefix "de-" (indicating reversal or removal) with the root "stabil" (from Latin "stabilis," meaning firm or steady) and the verb-forming suffix "-ize" (from Greek "-izein"). Literally, it means "to remove stability." The term emerged in the mid-20th century, reflecting political and scientific contexts where systems (e.g., governments, chemical compounds) could be deliberately or accidentally made unstable.
The economic crisis could destabilize the region.
Adding too much heat may destabilize the chemical solution.
Foreign interference often aims to destabilize weaker governments.
The new policy might destabilize the labor market.
Engineers must avoid designs that could destabilize the structure.