subvert

verb

sub·​vert səb-ˈvərt 

subverted; subverting; subverts

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

• degrade
• weaken
• corrupt
• destroy
• humiliate
• debase
• poison
• dilute
• pervert
• deteriorate
• demean
• ruin
• bastardize

Examples of subvert in a Sentence

They conspired to subvert the government.

trying to subvert the electoral process

Recent Examples on the Web

The final scene subverted what was previously known about Dave, a man established to be a passionate investigator and aspiring writer trapped in a complicated relationship. —Raven Brunner, People.com, 28 June 2025

Erotic surrender alone will not subvert or even really trouble the monarchy, which requires its own elaborately binding outfits and public displays of intimacy. —Helen Shaw, New Yorker, 26 June 2025

Spike’s eventual meeting with Dr. Kelson subverts expectations. —Richard Newby, HollywoodReporter, 23 June 2025

The woman’s elegant attire is gently subverted by a loose slip strap, drawing the viewer closer and evoking an emotional response to her humanity. —Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025

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

Rhymes for subvert

• alert
• assert
• avert
• dessert
• divert
• evert
• exert
• inert
• insert
• invert
• nightshirt
• overt

Kids Definition

subvert

verb

sub·​vert səb-ˈvərt 

1

: to overturn or overthrow from the foundation

2

: to undermine the morals, allegiance, or faith of : corrupt

subverter noun