stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər 

plural stabilizers

: one that stabilizes something: such as

a

: a substance added to another substance (such as an explosive or plastic) or to a system (such as an emulsion) to prevent or delay an unwanted alteration of physical state

b

: a gyroscope device to keep ships steady in a heavy sea

c

: an airfoil providing stability for an airplane

specifically : the fixed horizontal member of the tail assembly see airplane illustration

Examples of stabilizer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Notably, Häagen-Dazs doesn’t include any of the stabilizers or gums, like soy lecithin or xanthan gum, that other brands use as preservatives or thickeners. —Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 3 July 2024

When in doubt, use a quality fuel stabilizer to prevent damage to your equipment. —Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Sep. 2024

For backpacking, the Flash Cooking System has a one-liter cooking cup with an easy-to-use burner and igniter system that works with a fuel can and a handy stabilizer. —Wendy Altschuler, Forbes, 6 Sep. 2024

Antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and prescription eyedrops containing steroids can treat eye burning. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 4 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər 

: one (as a chemical or a device) that stabilizes something

especially : a fixed surface for stabilizing the motion of an airplane

Medical Definition

stabilizer

noun

sta·​bi·​liz·​er

variants also British stabiliser

ˈstā-bə-ˌlī-zər 

: one that stabilizes something

especially : a substance added to another substance or to a system (as an emulsion) to prevent or retard an unwanted alteration of physical state