Underling - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An underling is a subordinate or lower-ranking person, often in a workplace or organization, who follows the orders of someone in authority. The term can imply a lack of importance.
Definition:
A subordinate or person of lower rank, often viewed as unimportant.
Synonyms:
subordinate, minion, understrapper, lackey
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
superior, boss, leader
Common Collocations:
lowly underling, obedient underling, corporate underling
Derivatives:
underlings (plural), underlingdom (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "underling" to describe someone in a lower position, often with a dismissive or condescending tone.
Common Phrases:
treat like an underling, boss and underling, lowly underling
Etymology:
From Old English "under" + "-ling," a suffix denoting someone associated with something (often pejoratively).
Examples:
- 1. The manager scolded his underling for the mistake.
- 2. She refused to be treated as an underling and demanded respect.
- 3. The CEO rarely interacted with the underlings in the office.
- 4. He worked his way up from an underling to a supervisor.