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Undercurrent - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An undercurrent is a hidden or subtle flow of water beneath the surface, or an underlying feeling, trend, or influence that is not immediately obvious but affects a situation.

undercurrent

/ˈʌndərˌkɜrənt/ /ˈʌndəˌkʌrənt/

Definition:

A hidden or underlying feeling, influence, or trend, often contrary to the surface appearance.

Synonyms:

undertone, underflow, subcurrent, hidden trend

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

overtone, surface trend

Common Collocations:

strong undercurrent, dangerous undercurrent, political undercurrent, emotional undercurrent

Derivatives:

undercurrents (plural), undercurrented (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "undercurrent" to describe subtle influences or feelings beneath obvious situations, like tension in a conversation or hidden trends in society.

Common Phrases:

undercurrent of tension, undercurrent of emotion, undercurrent of change

Etymology:

From "under" + "current," first used in the early 19th century to describe hidden water flows or figurative trends.

Examples:

  • 1. There was an undercurrent of excitement in the crowd before the concert began.
  • 2. The calm discussion had an undercurrent of anger no one acknowledged.
  • 3. She sensed an undercurrent of sadness beneath his cheerful words.
  • 4. The novel explores the dark undercurrents of small-town life.

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