underperform

verb

un·​der·​per·​form ˌən-dər-pər-ˈfȯrm How to pronounce underperform (audio)
-pə-ˈfȯrm
underperformed; underperforming; underperforms

transitive verb

: to do worse than

intransitive verb

: to fail to do as well as expected
underperformance noun
underperformer noun

Examples of underperform in a Sentence

The report shows which schools are underperforming.
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.
Sacramento students are underperforming in English language arts and mathematics assessments compared to their peers across the state, according to new data released by the California Department of Education. Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2025 When someone consistently underperforms, the resulting discomfort or fear of job loss doesn’t automatically mean their leader is toxic. Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 14 Oct. 2025 The analyst earlier this month downgraded Apple to underperform, noting overly lofty expectations for the company’s next iPhone . Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2025 Finding first basemen, Preller has mostly underperformed the bright results of many of the franchise’s other team-builders. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for underperform

Word History

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of underperform was in 1971

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Cite this Entry

“Underperform.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underperform. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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