undermine
/ˌʌndərˈmaɪn/
verb
- To make something weaker or less effective, often gradually or secretly.
- The scandal undermined the public's trust in the government.
- Lack of sleep can undermine your ability to focus.
- Constant criticism can undermine a person's confidence.
- To dig or wear away the ground beneath something, making it collapse.
- Tree roots can undermine the foundation of a house.
- The tunnel undermined the road above, leading to a sinkhole.
- The river's current undermined the bank, causing it to crumble.
Antonyms