subvert

[ suhb-vurt ]

verb (used with object)

1. to overthrow (something established or existing).

   Synonyms: sabotage, overturn, undermine, disrupt, upset

2. to cause the downfall, ruin, or destruction of.
3. to undermine the principles of; corrupt.

subvert

/ səbˈvɜːt /

verb

1. to bring about the complete downfall or ruin of (something existing or established by a system of law, etc)
2. to undermine the moral principles of (a person, etc); corrupt

Derived Forms

• subˈverter, noun

Other Words From

• sub·verter noun
• unsub·verted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of subvert¹

1325–75; Middle English subverten < Latin subvertere to overthrow, equivalent to sub- sub- + vertere to turn

Word History and Origins

Origin of subvert¹

C14: from Latin subvertere to overturn, from sub- from below + vertere to turn

Example Sentences

Special Counsel Jack Smith appears to be giving up on a prosecution against President-elect Donald Trump over his alleged role in a plot to subvert the results of the 2020 election.

From Salon

Smith's case against Trump in D.C., accusing him of attempting to subvert President Joe Biden's 2020 electoral victory and obstruct Congress' certification of the results on Jan. 6, 2021, was dealt a heavy blow in July when the Supreme Court ruled the former president was broadly immune from official acts conducted within "his core constitutional powers" while in office.

From Salon

He tried to subvert an election and remains a threat to democracy.

From Salon

Because, yes, it does come down to the people and, despite the overt attempts by Donald Trump to subvert that, our will has held.

From Los Angeles Times

The next day, a federal judge released a court filing in which Special Counsel Jack Smith provided an extensive accounting of what prosecutors allege was Trump’s criminal scheme to subvert the 2020 election results, including with fake slates of electors and an insurrection at the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• corrupt
• debase
• overthrow
• overturn
• pervert
• poison
• sabotage
• supersede
• suppress
• topple
• undermine
• vitiate