undermine
- to injure or destroy by insidious activity or imperceptible stages, sometimes tending toward a sudden dramatic effect.
- to attack by indirect, secret, or underhand means; attempt to subvert by stealth.
- to make an excavation under; dig or tunnel beneath, as a military stronghold.
- to weaken or cause to collapse by removing underlying support, as by digging away or eroding the foundation.
Origin of undermine
Related Words for undermining
subversion, wrecking, overthrow, demolition, destruction, disruption, impairment, injury, mischief, treachery, treason, vandalism, wreckage, subversivenessExamples from the Web for undermining
Contemporary Examples of undermining
There is no question that undermining the financial foundations of ISIS is an important first step to rolling back the group.
The emerging power dynamics in Yemen are undermining U.S. gains against Al Qaeda and strengthening ISIS.
I am just so convinced that junk food and high sugar food are undermining the health of people…It caused a lot of strain.
The song has been accused of reinforcing rape culture and the undermining of women.
Are you unaware of the role agent provocateurs, special branch and MI5 have played in undermining us?
Historical Examples of undermining
West Point and the bath-tub were undermining our institutions.
We can't bear the plotting and undermining that takes place.
Barnaby RudgeCharles Dickens
Yet, were I to show the least energy or activity in support of the King's authority, I should then be accused of undermining it.
The Secret Memoirs of Louis XV./XVI, CompleteMadame du Hausset, an "Unknown English Girl" and the Princess Lamballe
It is not science which is undermining the future of institutional religion.
Mountain MeditationsL. Lind-af-Hageby
To tear away their present faith, is like undermining their existence.
Mizora: A ProphecyMary E. Bradley
undermine
- (of the sea, wind, etc) to wear away the bottom or base of (land, cliffs, etc)
- to weaken gradually or insidiouslytheir insults undermined her confidence
- to tunnel or dig beneath