ISEE/SSAT Vocabulary Builder›Words›U›undermine
ISEE/SSAThard
undermine
to weaken or damage something gradually, often secretly
Synonyms
- weaken
- sabotage
- subvert
Antonyms
- strengthen
- support
undermine in a sentence
Constant criticism from his rival undermined the coach's confidence.
Spreading false rumors was a deliberate attempt to undermine her reputation.
Where it comes from
From Old English underminen "to dig a tunnel beneath"
Memory hook
UNDER-MINE -- digging a mine under a structure secretly weakens its foundation.
Read it in context
- Signals After Midnight Science