Definition

To persuade someone to do something illegal or wrong, especially to lie in court.

Example

The lawyer was accused of trying to suborn a witness to change their testimony.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that scandal involving the politician?

Yeah, it’s crazy! They tried to suborn a witness to lie.

I can't believe people would go that far for power.

Right? It's so unethical and just disappointing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Suborn → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "ornare" (meaning to equip or adorn). The word originally referred to the act of secretly inducing someone to commit an unlawful act, as if equipping them under the table to do so.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'equipped' ('ornare') to do something 'under' ('sub-') the radar, which helps you remember that 'suborn' means to secretly persuade someone to commit a wrongful act.

Visually Confused Words