subvert

verb

sub·​vert səb-ˈvərt How to pronounce subvert (audio)
subverted; subverting; subverts

transitive verb

1
: to overturn or overthrow from the foundation : ruin
2
: to pervert or corrupt by an undermining of morals, allegiance, or faith
subverter noun

Examples of subvert in a Sentence

They conspired to subvert the government. trying to subvert the electoral process
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tyler's strategy completely subverts this traditional ways marketers have historically approached STP. Dr. Marcus Collins, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024 Linkages between these users and any administration would subvert the traditional notion of citizenship, and agreements between the entities would be unlike ordinary alliances. Henry A. Kissinger, Foreign Affairs, 18 Nov. 2024 Special prosecutor Jack Smith is still pursuing a case against Trump for allegedly taking part in a sweeping criminal conspiracy to not just deny the 2020 election of President Biden, but also subvert it. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2024 Today’s opera houses continue to build on that model and, at times, subvert it. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for subvert 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French subvertir, from Latin subvertere, literally, to turn from beneath, from sub- + vertere to turn — more at worth

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subvert was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near subvert

Cite this Entry

“Subvert.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subvert. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

subvert

verb
sub·​vert səb-ˈvərt How to pronounce subvert (audio)
1
: to overturn or overthrow from the foundation
2
: to undermine the morals, allegiance, or faith of : corrupt
subverter noun

More from Merriam-Webster on subvert

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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