undermine
/ʌndəˈmaɪn/
Group 5Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To damage or weaken, especially gradually GRE
Example in Context
The constant leaks of confidential information undermined public confidence in the institution's ability to safeguard sensitive data.
Synonyms
weakensabotageerode
Etymology
To dig below something, weakening its foundation gradually.
- under (Old English) — below
- mine (Middle English) — to dig
Memory Aid
⛏️Sounds like “under mine”
A sneaky gopher digging UNDER your MINE, making it collapse without you even knowing!
Visual Association
🏗️A construction site where workers are oblivious as the ground beneath them slowly erodes away.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “undermine” mean on the GRE?
undermine (verb) means “To damage or weaken, especially gradually”. The constant leaks of confidential information undermined public confidence in the institution's ability to safeguard sensitive data.
How to remember “undermine” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “undermine” sounds like “under mine”. A sneaky gopher digging UNDER your MINE, making it collapse without you even knowing!
What are synonyms for “undermine”?
Common synonyms: weaken, sabotage, erode.