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Definition of undermine

undermine

/ˌʌn.dɚˈmaɪn/
un · der · mine
Adjective:undermined
•
Past Simple:undermined
•
Past Participle:undermined
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Present Participle:undermining
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undermine Lexical Profile

undermine Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To lessen the effectiveness, power, or ability of someone or something, especially gradually or insidiously.

Example

"Spreading unverified rumors can quickly undermine trust within a team."

2

To erode the base or foundation of a rock formation, cliff, or building, or to dig or excavate beneath something so as to make it collapse.

Example

"Years of heavy coastal waves had begun to undermine the limestone cliffs."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for undermine

• Nearby Words

underlyingly
undermanned
undermentioned
undermine
underminer
underneath
undernourish

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the prefix 'under-' and the verb 'mine' (from Old French 'miner', meaning to dig). It originally referred to the medieval siege tactic of digging tunnels beneath castle walls to cause them to collapse.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Undermine. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/undermine
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