Undercurrent: meaning, definitions and examples
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undercurrent
[ ˈʌndərkʌrənt ]
in emotions
An underlying feeling or influence, especially one that is contrary to the prevailing atmosphere and is often hidden or not obvious.
Synonyms
subcurrent, subtext, undertone
Examples of usage
- There was an undercurrent of tension throughout the meeting.
- She sensed an undercurrent of jealousy among her colleagues.
in water
A current of water below the surface and moving in a different direction from any surface current.
Synonyms
rip current, subsurface current, undertow
Examples of usage
- Swimmers should be cautious of undercurrents while at the beach.
- The undercurrents in the river can be dangerous for small boats.
Translations
Translations of the word "undercurrent" in other languages:
🇵🇹 corrente submersa
🇮🇳 अंत:धारा
🇩🇪 Unterströmung
🇮🇩 arus bawah
🇺🇦 підводна течія
🇵🇱 prąd podwodny
🇯🇵 底流 (ていりゅう)
🇫🇷 courant sous-marin
🇪🇸 corriente subterránea
🇹🇷 dip akıntı
🇰🇷 저류
🇸🇦 تيار تحت الماء
🇨🇿 podproud
🇸🇰 podprúd
🇨🇳 暗流 (ànliú)
🇸🇮 podtok
🇮🇸 undirstraumur
🇰🇿 астыртын ағыс
🇬🇪 ქვედა დინება
🇦🇿 alt axın
🇲🇽 corriente subterránea
Word origin
The word 'undercurrent' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'under' and 'current'. It initially referred to a current of water below the surface, later developing a figurative sense to describe hidden influences or feelings. The term has been used metaphorically in various contexts to convey subtle or hidden aspects.
See also: current, currently, currentness, subcurrent, subcurrents, undercurrents.