undermine

[ uhn-der-mahyn uhn-der-mahyn ]

verb (used with object)

, un·der·mined, un·der·min·ing.

1. to injure or destroy by insidious activity or imperceptible stages, sometimes tending toward a sudden dramatic effect.
2. to attack by indirect, secret, or underhand means; attempt to subvert by stealth.
3. to make an excavation under; dig or tunnel beneath, as a military stronghold.
4. to weaken or cause to collapse by removing underlying support, as by digging away or eroding the foundation.

undermine

/ ˌʌndəˈmaɪn /

verb

1. (of the sea, wind, etc) to wear away the bottom or base of (land, cliffs, etc)
2. to weaken gradually or insidiously

   their insults undermined her confidence

3. to tunnel or dig beneath

Derived Forms

• ˌunderˈminer, noun

Other Words From

• un·der·min·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of undermine¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English underminen; under-, mine ²

Example Sentences

"Breaking them off would change their business models, raise the cost of devices, and undermine Android and Google Play in their robust competition with Apple’s iPhone and App Store," the company said.

From BBC

Donald Trump’s return to the White House could undermine access to gender-affirming care in California, advocates and others say, despite vows by lawmakers to protect it.

From Los Angeles Times

They also say the convictions serve as a warning against forces trying to undermine China’s national security.

From BBC

"In each case, behaviors that weren't directly targeted by the policy -- like purchasing more sugary snacks when soda is taxed -- can offset or even undermine the policy's primary goals."

From Science Daily

All spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid undermining their own preparations.

From Salon

Related Words

• erode
• frustrate
• hurt
• impair
• ruin
• sabotage
• sap
• subvert
• threaten
• thwart
• torpedo
• undercut
• weaken
• wreck