Built from under and mine, originally meaning to dig beneath a structure and weaken it. The sense of weakening a person’s position or an idea developed later.
Built from under and mine, originally meaning to dig beneath a structure and weaken it. The sense of weakening a person’s position or an idea developed later.
What does undermine mean?
To undermine something is to weaken the support it depends on, either socially or physically.
Can criticism undermine confidence?
Yes. Repeated criticism can gradually weaken someone’s confidence.
Can water undermine a wall?
Yes. It can wear away the ground that supports the wall.
Does undermine always mean acting secretly?
No. The weakening may be open or accidental, although the word can suggest a hidden process.
What is the opposite of undermine?
In many contexts, strengthen or reinforce is the opposite.