undoing

noun

un·​do·​ing ˌən-ˈdü-iŋ 

1

: an act of loosening : unfastening

2

: ruin

also : a cause of ruin

greed was to prove his undoing

3

: annulment, reversal

Synonyms

• death
• destruction
• downfall
• ruin
• ruination

Examples of undoing in a Sentence

My quick temper was my undoing.

His quick temper helped lead to his undoing.

The incident resulted in her undoing.

Recent Examples on the Web

While this can mean that sabotage is coming from an outside source, don’t forget that your own emotions or self-doubt can be your undoing. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 10 Apr. 2024

But the girl survived, playing a pivotal role in Wilder’s ultimate undoing. —Emily Palmer, Peoplemag, 15 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

undoing

noun

un·​do·​ing ˌən-ˈdü-iŋ 

1

: an act or instance of unfastening

2

a

: ruin entry 1 sense 1

parental neglect helped lead to their undoing

b

: a cause of ruin

my quick temper was my undoing

3

: reversal, annulment