Underground Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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underground

[ˈʌndəɡraʊnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

transport

A system of trains, buses, etc. that operate below ground in a city.

Synonyms

metro, subway, tube.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
underground	Used primarily in British English to refer to a city's public transportation system that operates below ground level. The London Underground is one of the oldest metro systems in the world. She takes the underground to work every morning.
subway	Primarily used in American English for underground urban train systems. The New York City subway operates 24/7. I'm taking the subway to the concert tonight.
metro	Commonly used in European and some international cities to describe an urban rapid transit system. The Paris Metro is known for its extensive network. They are expanding the metro service to reach more suburbs.
tube	Colloquial term used in London to refer to their underground rail system. You can get to Covent Garden directly on the Piccadilly line of the tube. He's been riding the tube for years and knows all the shortcuts.

Examples of usage

The London Underground is the oldest underground railway system in the world.
I prefer taking the underground to avoid traffic jams.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

secret

Done secretly or hidden from public view.

Synonyms

clandestine, covert, hidden.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
underground	Used to describe something that exists below the surface or out of the public eye, often in a physical sense or to describe a movement that is not mainstream. The subway system is an extensive underground network The band's music was part of the underground scene in the '90s
covert	Typically used for activities that are intentionally concealed, usually implying a level of secrecy and often connected to military or surveillance activities. The agency carried out a covert mission to gather intelligence Their covert actions were crucial in disrupting the plot
clandestine	Used to describe secretive or concealed activities, often illegal or done to avoid detection. They held clandestine meetings to plan the revolution The spy was part of a clandestine operation
hidden	Describes something that is not visible or easily found, generally in a straightforward physical or metaphorical sense. The key was hidden under the doormat She kept her true feelings hidden from everyone

Examples of usage

They were involved in underground activities to overthrow the government.
The underground resistance movement operated in secrecy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In music, the 'underground' scene includes independent artists and genres that exist outside of mainstream popularity.
Movies like 'The Matrix' and 'Delicatessen' explore underground worlds as metaphors for rebellion and alternative lifestyles.
The term is often associated with 'subcultures' like punk or hip-hop, highlighting their roots in opposition to mainstream culture.

Science

Bacteria and fungi in underground environments play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and ecosystem health.
Archaeological findings from underground sites like Pompeii provide insight into ancient civilizations and their daily lives.
Geothermal energy is harnessed from underground sources of heat, showcasing an important renewable energy method.

Literature

Many classic novels, such as 'The Underground Man' by Mick Jackson, explore themes of isolation and society beneath the surface.
The concept of an 'underground' movement is often explored in dystopian literature, representing rebellion against oppressive systems.
Authors like George Orwell have used underground imagery to symbolize hidden truths and societal critique.

History

During World War II, underground resistance movements formed in occupied countries to oppose Nazi rule.
The Underground Railroad was a network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom in the 19th century.
In ancient Rome, Christians often practiced their faith in underground catacombs to avoid persecution.

Origin of 'underground'

Main points about word origin

The term 'underground' comes from Old English 'undergrēne', which literally means 'under the ground'.
It was first used in English literature in the 18th century, particularly referring to subterranean spaces.
The word has expanded in meaning to include not just physical spaces but also movements and cultures beneath the mainstream.

The term 'underground' originated in the 1590s to describe the secret activities or movements that operate below the surface or in secrecy. The use of 'underground' to refer to transport systems below ground level began in the early 19th century with the construction of the London Underground. Over time, the word has come to symbolize hidden, secret, or subterranean elements within various contexts.