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Subterranean: meaning, definitions and examples

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subterranean

 

[ ˌsʌb.təˈreɪ.ni.ən ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

below the surface

Existing, situated, or operating below the surface of the earth. Subterranean spaces can include caves, tunnels, and basements.

Synonyms

below ground, subsurface, underground

Examples of usage

  • The subterranean cave was home to a rare species of bats.
  • The subway system includes subterranean tunnels for trains to travel through.
Context #2 | Noun

underground area

A subterranean area or structure. Subterraneans can refer to underground dwellings, passages, or cities.

Synonyms

below-ground structure, underground area

Examples of usage

  • The ancient civilization built their city in the subterranean caves.
  • The bunker served as a subterranean shelter during the war.

Translations

Translations of the word "subterranean" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subterrâneo

🇮🇳 भूमिगत

🇩🇪 unterirdisch

🇮🇩 bawah tanah

🇺🇦 підземний

🇵🇱 podziemny

🇯🇵 地下 (ちか)

🇫🇷 souterrain

🇪🇸 subterráneo

🇹🇷 yeraltı

🇰🇷 지하

🇸🇦 تحت الأرض

🇨🇿 podzemní

🇸🇰 podzemný

🇨🇳 地下

🇸🇮 podzemni

🇮🇸 neðanjarðar

🇰🇿 жерасты

🇬🇪 ქვესკნელი

🇦🇿 yeraltı

🇲🇽 subterráneo

Word origin

The word 'subterranean' originates from the Latin word 'subterraneus', which means 'underground'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe things situated or operating below the surface of the earth.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,718, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.