WordLens

subvert

1 of 1verb
/səbˈvɝt/
Forms:subverts,subverting,subverted,subverted
1

to cause the downfall of authority figures or rulers

transitive
  • The rebel group sought to subvert the ruling government.
  • Corrupt officials may subvert the legal system for personal gain.
  • Attempts to subvert the monarchy were met with harsh consequences.
  • The coup was planned to subvert the existing regime.
  • The coup d'état successfully subverted the existing government.
2

to bring about the collapse, failure, or destruction of something

transitive
  • Corruption within the company eventually subverted its financial stability.
  • The hacker’s attack was designed to subvert the entire network, causing chaos.
  • The conspiracy sought to subvert the alliance by spreading false information.
  • The invading army worked to subvert the city’s defenses before launching a full attack.
  • Over time, neglect and mismanagement subverted the once-thriving business.
3

to weaken or destroy someone's morals, loyalty, or beliefs by secretly influencing or undermining them

transitive
  • The propaganda aimed to subvert the population’s trust in their government.
  • She accused the outsider of trying to subvert her team’s unity with false rumors.
  • The spy’s mission was to subvert the enemy soldiers’ allegiance to their leaders.
  • Critics claimed that the film attempted to subvert traditional family values.
  • He tried to subvert her confidence by constantly pointing out her flaws.