subvert

verb

sub·​vert səb-ˈvərt How to pronounce subvert (audio)
subverted; subverting; subverts
Synonyms of subvert

transitive verb

1
: to overturn or overthrow from the foundation : ruin
2
: to pervert or corrupt by an undermining of morals, allegiance, or faith
subverter noun

Synonyms of subvert

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Examples of subvert in a Sentence

They conspired to subvert the government. trying to subvert the electoral process
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Strnad wanted to subvert that arrangement and instead encircle the entire audience in a ring of stagecraft. — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 29 July 2026 Commentators such as Canadian journalist and filmmaker Paul Jay, founder and former CEO of The Real News Network, have described the 2021 insurrection as a dry run for future attempts to subvert American democracy. — James Robenalt, Vanity Fair, 27 July 2026 What could be a stock campus ice-queen role is subverted throughout the season, through the empathy for the character that courses through her performance. — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 27 July 2026 The singer has become known for performances that subvert stereotypes and expectations related to American cowboy mythology. — Bryan West, USA Today, 22 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for subvert

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French subvertir, from Latin subvertere, literally, to turn from beneath, from sub- + vertere to turn — more at worth

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subvert was in the 14th century

Rhymes for subvert

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Browse Nearby Words

subversivism
subvert
subverter
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Cite this Entry

“Subvert.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subvert. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subvert

verb
sub·​vert səb-ˈvərt How to pronounce subvert (audio)
1
: to overturn or overthrow from the foundation
2
: to undermine the morals, allegiance, or faith of : corrupt
subverter noun

More from Merriam-Webster on subvert

Nglish: Translation of subvert for Spanish Speakers

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