How Do You Spell UNDERMINE?

1. Undermine is a transitive verb that refers to the act of weakening, damaging, or gradually eroding the foundation, stability, or support of something, usually covertly or in a subtle manner. It involves intentionally subverting, sabotaging, or diminishing the effectiveness, credibility, or authority of a person, institution, system, or idea.

   To undermine is to strategically and intentionally chip away or weaken the structure or foundation of something, making it vulnerable or susceptible to collapse, failure, or loss of confidence. This can be achieved by engaging in actions or spreading information that erodes trust, belief, or loyalty, often undermining the integrity or credibility of the subject under scrutiny.

   This term can also refer to the act of reducing the effectiveness or success of someone's efforts or plans by subtly or clandestinely obstructing, interfering, or sabotaging them. By subtly eroding or undercutting the progress, reputation, or authority of an individual or group, one can undermine their position, influence, or power over time.

   Undermining can occur in various contexts such as personal relationships, politics, or economics. It involves methods like spreading doubt, planting seeds of suspicion, insidiously sowing discord or dissension, or manipulating information to disrupt harmony or stability. It is a term commonly used to describe actions that erode the foundation upon which something is built and ultimately weakens the overall functionality or credibility of the target.

2. To excavate beneath, as earth or rock, for the purpose of creating a fall, or blowing up the mass; to injure by secret and dishonourable means.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for UNDERMINE *

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Other Common Misspellings for UNDERMINE

The word "undermine" is derived from Old English, specifically from the combination of "under" (meaning "beneath" or "lower") and "mine" (meaning "excavation" or "tunnel"). In its original literal sense, "undermine" referred to the act of tunneling beneath something, often with destructive intent. Over time, it gained a metaphorical usage to mean gradually weakening or subverting something, much like how tunnels beneath a structure can weaken its foundation.

Similar spelling words for UNDERMINE

Conjugate verb Undermine

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