undermining

[ uhn-der-mahy-ning ]

noun

1. the act or process of injuring, attacking, or destroying something or someone indirectly or by imperceptible degrees, often leading to a dramatic collapse:

   The undermining of Scottish Gaelic as a viable language resulted not from decrees, but from a gradual weakening of independent Scottish institutions.

2. the act or process of weakening something or causing it to collapse by removing its underlying support, as by erosion:

   During the heavy rains, blocked sewers caused the flooding of the basement and the undermining of the wall by water.

3. the act of digging or tunneling underneath something, as a military stronghold:

   The siege works were now close enough to allow the undermining of some of the bastions of the fortress.

adjective

1. weakening something or someone gradually or indirectly:

   Seating students in rows, so they cannot see each other’s faces, has an undermining effect on their engagement.

2. digging or tunneling underneath something, or removing or eroding its underlying support:

   The land along the shoreline collapsed because of undermining waves and currents.

Other Words From

• un·der·min·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of undermining¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; undermin(e) ( def ) + -ing ¹( def ) for the noun senses; undermin(e) ( def ) + -ing ²( def ) for the adjective senses

Example Sentences

But other ministers believe the chancellor is in danger of undermining Labour’s relations with rural Britain while raising a relatively small amount of money.

From BBC

The Supreme Court ruled in July that presidents have partial immunity from criminal prosecution for their conduct in office, undermining Mr Smith's work.

From BBC

Proponents of more punitive measures say homelessness has gotten out of control, undermining the quality of life as cities have become more lax about enforcing laws against camping and public use of drugs and alcohol.

From Los Angeles Times

The president-elect could attempt to once again abandon the Paris Agreement, undermining global efforts to address the crisis.

From Salon

Sir Keir said: "There is a criminal empire operating on our continent, exacting a horrendous human toll and undermining our national security."

From BBC

Related Words

• subversion