undercurrent

noun

un·​der·​cur·​rent ˈən-dər-ˌkər-ənt How to pronounce undercurrent (audio)
-ˌkə-rənt
1
: a current below the upper currents or surface
2
: a hidden opinion, feeling, or tendency often contrary to the one publicly shown
undercurrent adjective

Examples of undercurrent in a Sentence

You could be pulled under water by the dangerous undercurrents.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The thrumming bass undercurrent, rising like some dread unknown beneath it all. Erik Kain, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025 The stalemate continues, but the threatening undercurrent suggests this may not last. Keith Phipps, Vulture, 10 Jan. 2025 Two big, easygoing undercurrents are shaping 2025’s fashion trends: boho and prep. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 9 Jan. 2025 Mars, the planet of action, remains retrograde in Leo until January 6 and continues its retrograde in Cancer until February 23, adding an undercurrent of sensitivity, moodiness and introspection to the month. Dossé-Via Trenou, refinery29.com, 26 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for undercurrent 

Word History

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of undercurrent was in 1683

Dictionary Entries Near undercurrent

Cite this Entry

“Undercurrent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/undercurrent. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

undercurrent

noun
un·​der·​cur·​rent -ˌkər-ənt How to pronounce undercurrent (audio)
-ˌkə-rənt
1
: a current below the upper currents or surface
undercurrents of water
2
: a hidden current of opinion or feeling often different from the one openly shown

More from Merriam-Webster on undercurrent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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