Stable

Definition

Stable refers to something that is steady, firmly established, or not easily changed. It can also describe a building where horses or livestock are kept.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsteɪ.bəl/
• Respelling: STAY-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsteɪ.bəl/
• Respelling: STAY-buhl

Etymology

The word "stable" originates from the Latin "stabilis," meaning "firm" or "steadfast," derived from "stare," meaning "to stand." It was adopted into Middle English via Old French as "estable," referring to both physical stability and structures for animals.

Derivatives

• Stability (noun)
• Stabilize (verb)
• Stably (adverb)
• Stabilization (noun)
• Stabilizer (noun)

Synonyms

• Steady
• Secure
• Firm

Antonyms

• Unstable
• Insecure
• Fickle

Usage

The word "stable" is used in various contexts to denote steadiness or reliability, as in "The ladder is stable on the flat ground." It also refers to a structure for housing animals, for example, "The horses are kept in a stable."

Related Terms

• Equestrian: Related to horse riding or horses.
• Balance: A state of equilibrium or steadiness.
• Firmness: The quality of being solid or unyielding.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Steady and not easily moved or changed: Refers to something reliable or resistant to disruption.
  • Example: "The patient’s condition is stable after surgery."
• Durable or consistent in function: Indicates something that maintains its integrity over time.
  • Example: "The software runs on a stable operating system."

Noun

• A building for housing horses or livestock: Refers to a structure designed to keep animals.
  • Example: "The farmer built a new stable for his horses."
• A group of animals or people under one management: Describes a collection associated with a common entity.
  • Example: "The company has a stable of talented writers."

Verb

• To house animals in a stable: Refers to keeping horses or livestock in a designated building.
  • Example: "They stable their horses at a nearby farm."