undermine
definition
to weaken or damage something gradually or secretly
example
The constant criticism from her peers began to undermine her confidence, making her hesitant to speak up in meetings.
synonyms
diminishsabotageweaken
word origin — The word 'undermine' comes from the Middle English 'under-mynen,' which means 'to dig beneath.' It is formed from 'under' + 'mine,' where 'mine' originally meant 'to excavate or dig in,' signifying the physical act of eroding the foundation.