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Meaning of subversive
The primary meaning of "subversive" refers to something or someone that seeks to undermine or overthrow an established authority, institution, or social order.
Etymology of subversive
The word "subversive" originates from the Latin "subversus," meaning "overturned" or "overthrown," which is a combination of "sub" (under) and "versus" (turned)
Historically, the term has been used to describe activities or movements that aim to challenge or overthrow existing power structures, often in a clandestine or covert manner
Synonyms
rebellious
revolutionary
radical
insurrectional
seditious
treasonous
mutinous
defiant
disobedient
nonconformist
unconventional
unorthodox
heretical
dissident
renegade
insurgent
riotous
turbulent
anarchic
lawless
disorderly
insubordinate
recalcitrant
refractory
intractable
contumacious
iconoclastic
provocative
incendiary
inflammatory
destabilizing
undermining
corrupting
pernicious
destructive
damaging
harmful
detrimental
subversal
insidious
surreptitious
clandestine
furtive
covert
secretive
stealthy
Definitions
- Intended or likely to undermine or destroy an established authority, institution, or social order
- * Seeking or intended to overthrow or undermine an established government, institution, or social order
Usage Examples
- The subversive nature of the artist's work challenged the traditional norms of the art world
- * The government accused the activist group of engaging in subversive activities against the state
- * The novel's subversive themes and characters sparked controversy and debate among readers