Undermine

Un`der*mine" (?), v. t. 1. To excavate the earth beneath, or the part of, especially for the purpose of causing to fall or be overthrown; to form a mine under; to sap; as, to undermine a wall.

A vast rock undermined from one end to the other, and a highway running through it.
Addison.

2. Fig.: To remove the foundation or support of by clandestine means; to ruin in an underhand way; as, to undermine reputation; to undermine the constitution of the state.

He should be warned who are like to undermine him.
Locke.