subversive

[ suhb-vur-siv ]

adjective

1. Also sub·ver·sion·ar·y [] tending or intending to subvert or overthrow, destroy, or undermine an established or existing system, especially a legally constituted government or a set of beliefs.

   Synonyms: destructive, seditious, treacherous, traitorous

noun

1. a person who adopts subversive principles or policies.

subversive

/ səbˈvɜːsɪv /

adjective

1. liable to subvert or overthrow a government, legally constituted institution, etc

noun

1. a person engaged in subversive activities, etc

Derived Forms

• subˈversively, adverb
• subˈversiveness, noun

Other Words From

• sub·versive·ly adverb
• sub·versiv·ism sub·versive·ness noun
• counter·sub·versive noun
• nonsub·versive adjective
• nonsub·versive·ly adverb
• nonsub·versive·ness noun
• self-sub·versive adjective
• unsub·versive adjective
• unsub·versive·ly adverb
• unsub·versive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of subversive¹

1635–45; < Latin subvers ( us ) (past participle of subvertere to subvert ) + -ive

Example Sentences

"Harbouring the subversive elements accused of undertaking activities detrimental to a friendly country posed both a diplomatic and humanitarian dilemma to Kenya," he added.

From BBC

It is a subversive treatment, and it has had an effect on society worldwide.

From Los Angeles Times

For example, in the 1930s, we saw this put to effective use in the subversive anti-Nazi photomontage posters of the German resistance artist John Heartfield.

From Salon

“Comedies like The Marriage of Figaro — especially comedies — were some of the most subversive pieces, and conveyed its messages in a very clever way that often barely escaped censorship.”

From Salon

Smith's sensuous delivery was a subversive step forward for country music but Kristofferson's own version - croaky-voiced and dripping with hunger - is just as much of a thrill.

From BBC

Related Words

• incendiary
• riotous