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Underneath - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Underneath means directly below or beneath something, often hidden or covered. It can also refer to a lower position or layer, both physically and metaphorically. Example: The keys were underneath the book.

underneath

/ˌʌndɚˈniθ/ /ˌʌndəˈniːθ/

Definition:

Directly below or beneath something, often hidden or covered.

Synonyms:

beneath, below, under, underneath, underlying

Part of Speech:

preposition, adverb

Antonyms:

above, over

Common Collocations:

underneath the surface, underneath the bed, underneath the table

Derivatives:

underneathes (rare), underneathness (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "underneath" to emphasize being directly below or concealed by something else.

Common Phrases:

from underneath, right underneath, buried underneath

Etymology:

Derived from Old English "underneoþan," combining "under" and "neoþan" (below).

Examples:

  • 1. The cat hid underneath the blanket.
  • 2. She found her keys underneath the couch.
  • 3. The treasure was buried underneath the old oak tree.
  • 4. He wore a warm sweater underneath his coat.

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