stability

Everyday

1. Stability is being steady and not likely to fall over, move or change suddenly. tree →
2. Stability in a life, family, country or job means things stay calm and safe and do not keep changing. tree →
3. (science) Stability is how well a structure or object stays balanced and upright. tree →

In the lessons

In science and design lessons stability means a wide base and a low centre of weight make a tower or boat hard to tip. In everyday life and news it means calm, safe conditions: a stable home, prices that do not jump. Phrases: for stability, give stability, lose stability, peace and stability.

Examples

• A wide base gives a tower more stability. tree →
• The bike's training wheels add stability. tree →
• Children need stability and love at home. tree →
• The boat lost its stability in the big waves. tree →
• Test the stability of your paper bridge by adding coins. tree →
• The country wants peace and stability after the war. tree →

Note

Noun from the adjective «stable» (steady). The opposite is «instability». Uncountable: «more stability», not «stabilities». «Stable» as a noun (a building for horses) is a different word.

In Jewish tradition

In Isaiah it means a steady, secure time, made firm by wisdom and awe of God.

Interpretation. The verse is read as saying that true security comes not from armies but from wisdom, knowledge and fear of the LORD.

Examples

• And the stability of thy times shall be a hoard of salvation — wisdom and knowledge, and the fear of the LORD which is His treasure. (Prophets ISA.33.6, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Noun from the adjective «stable» (steady). The opposite is «instability». Uncountable: «more stability», not «stabilities». «Stable» as a noun (a building for horses) is a different word.