English · Common Verbs
undermine
/ˌʌn.dəˈmaɪn/
[/ˌʌn.dəˈmaɪn/]
weaken gradually
Advancedverb
Definition
To weaken or damage something, often gradually and not obviously.
Example
Constant criticism can undermine even a confident person's belief in their own abilities.
Constant criticism can undermine even a confident person's belief in their own abilities.
Etymology
From Old English 'under' plus 'mine' (to dig), originally a military term for tunnelling under walls.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in political, psychological, and strategic contexts.