verb
subvert
suhb-VURT
Subvert (verb) means to weaken or destroy an established system, authority, or institution, often secretly. Example: “The scandal subverted public trust in the government.”
verb
1
To weaken or destroy an established system, authority, or institution, often secretly.
"The scandal subverted public trust in the government."
"The film subverts audience expectations by killing off the hero early."
How to use subvert
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo undermine or overturn something, especially a system, expectation, or authority.
Common pairings
subvert expectations
subvert authority
subvert the system
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Word forms
- Plural
- subverts
- Third person singular
- subverts
- Past tense
- subverted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The scandal _____ public trust in the government.
Etymology
From Old French subvertir, from Latin subvertere ("to overturn"), literally "to turn from beneath."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “subvert” mean?
The word “subvert” means to weaken or destroy an established system, authority, or institution, often secretly. In plain terms, to undermine or overturn something, especially a system, expectation, or authority.
How do you pronounce “subvert”?
“Subvert” is pronounced suhb-VURT (/səbˈvɝt/ in IPA).
How do you use “subvert” in a sentence?
Here is “subvert” used in a sentence: “The scandal subverted public trust in the government.”
What part of speech is “subvert”?
“Subvert” is a verb.
Where does the word “subvert” come from?
The word “subvert” comes from Latin. From Old French subvertir, from Latin subvertere ("to overturn"), literally "to turn from beneath.".
