verb
-
to bring about the complete downfall or ruin of (something existing or established by a system of law, etc)
-
to undermine the moral principles of (a person, etc); corrupt
Other Word Forms
- subverter noun
- unsubverted adjective
Etymology
Origin of subvert
1325–75; Middle English subverten < Latin subvertere to overthrow, equivalent to sub- sub- + vertere to turn
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Still, it is thrilling to see if they can successfully pull off their scheme and subvert a system that rewards the greediest at the expense of the neediest.
From Los Angeles Times
The removals were dubious from a legal standpoint, subverting due process and legal proceedings linked to extradition treaties signed by Mexico, say lawyers, security analysts and former officials.
They’re standards that “Dead Man” aims to measure up to, as well as templates it wants to subvert.
From Los Angeles Times
D’Aquino’s defense: She had been slyly subverting the propaganda machine the whole time, entertaining Americans with facetious language no one could take seriously and introducing upbeat American music the GIs actually loved.
From Los Angeles Times
I should have known better than to think that I could subvert Ma’s indomitable will.
From Literature
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
