online vocabulary.com

Undermining - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Undermining means weakening or damaging something gradually, often secretly. It can refer to reducing someone’s authority, confidence, or efforts, or physically eroding a structure’s foundation.

undermining

/ˌʌndɚˈmaɪnɪŋ/ /ˌʌndəˈmaɪnɪŋ/

Definition:

Weakening or damaging something gradually, often secretly or insidiously.

Synonyms:

sabotaging, weakening, subverting, eroding

Part of Speech:

noun, gerund

Antonyms:

strengthening, supporting

Common Collocations:

undermining confidence, undermining authority, undermining efforts

Derivatives:

undermine (verb), underminer (noun)

Usage Tips:

Use "undermining" to describe actions that weaken trust or stability over time, often subtly.

Common Phrases:

undermining someone's credibility, undermining the foundation, undermining morale

Etymology:

From Old English "underminian," meaning to dig beneath or weaken from below.

Examples:

  • 1. Her constant criticism is undermining his confidence.
  • 2. The scandal is undermining public trust in the government.
  • 3. Poor communication risks undermining team morale.
  • 4. Lack of sleep can undermine your health over time.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS