Stable
'steɪbəl
Definitions
3 meaningsResistant to change, damage, or displacement; firmly established; steady.
'steɪbəl
Not likely to change or fail; firmly established.
The patient's condition is stable after the surgery.
💡 Simply: Imagine a building that's built really well, so it doesn't shake or fall down easily. That's like something that is stable! Like a good friendship that stays strong over time.
👶 For kids: Something stable means it's not going to fall over or change easily.
More Examples
The economy needs a stable government to thrive.
He provided a stable environment for his children.
How It's Used
"A stable isotope is one that doesn't decay over time."
"The market experienced a stable period after the crisis."
A building in which horses or other livestock are housed and fed.
'steɪbəl
A building in which horses or other livestock are sheltered and fed.
The horses are kept in the stable during the winter.
💡 Simply: Imagine a house for horses or other farm animals. That's a stable! It's a place where they can sleep, eat, and be safe.
👶 For kids: A stable is a house for horses and other farm animals.
More Examples
She worked at the stables as a groom.
The barn had been converted into a riding stable.
How It's Used
"The horses were housed in a large, well-maintained stable."
"The farmer cleaned the stable every morning."
To put or keep (an animal) in a stable.
'steɪbəl
They stabled the horses before the storm hit.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're taking your horse to its cozy house. That act of putting it in the stable is called stabling.
👶 For kids: To stable is to put animals, like horses, in their house, the stable.
More Examples
The groom stabled the racehorses after the competition.
After the race, the horses were stabled in the large barn.
How It's Used
"He stabled the horses after the long ride."
"They usually stable the cows at night."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
a stable diet
A diet that provides the necessary nutrients and energy to maintain a healthy weight and body condition.
"For a stable diet, ensure you include a variety of food groups."
stable marriage
A marriage arrangement that remains mutually beneficial for both partners.
"The couple sought guidance to ensure a stable marriage."
From Old French 'estable' (firm, fixed), from Latin 'stabilis' (firm, stable).
Historically, the word was used in a similar context as today, referencing both the building and the quality of being steady.
Memory tip
Think of a sturdy table – it's stable and won't easily tip over.