subversion

[ suhb-vur-zhuhn, -shuhn ]

noun

1. an act or instance of subverting.
2. the state of being subverted; destruction.
3. something that subverts or overthrows.

subversion

/ səbˈvɜːʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of subverting or overthrowing a legally constituted government, institution, etc
2. the state of being subverted; destruction or ruin
3. something that brings about an overthrow

Other Words From

• anti·sub·version noun
• nonsub·version noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of subversion¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Late Latin subversiōn- (stem of subversiō ) an overthrowing. See sub-, version

Word History and Origins

Origin of subversion¹

C14: from Late Latin subversiō destruction, from Latin subvertere to subvert

Example Sentences

Most were found guilty of conspiring to attempt subversion, while two were acquitted.

From BBC

Most of the defendants either pleaded guilty or were convicted of conspiring to attempt subversion.

From BBC

Ultimately, the conflict between societal expectations and Danson’s persona only added to the subversion.

From Los Angeles Times

Ultimately Russia already supplies weapons to the UK's adversaries, and is already engaged in 'active measures' such as subversion, espionage, sabotage, and information/cyber operations against Nato members' interests.

From BBC

The new indictment, which again accuses the Republican nominee of criminal election subversion, seeks to reframe Trump’s actions not as those of a president but as a desperate candidate for office.

From Salon

Related Words

• destruction