subvert

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb cause the downfall of; of rulers
  2. verb corrupt morally or by intemperance or sensuality
  3. verb destroy property or hinder normal operations

Etymology

From Middle English subverten, from Old French subvertir, from Latin subvertō (“to overthrow”, literally “to underturn, turn from beneath”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

overthrow, overturn, bring down

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