Underground: meaning, definitions and examples
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underground
[ˈʌndəɡraʊnd ]
Definitions
transport
A system of trains, buses, etc. that operate below ground in a city.
Synonyms
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.
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| subway |
Primarily used in American English for underground urban train systems.
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| metro |
Commonly used in European and some international cities to describe an urban rapid transit system.
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| tube |
Colloquial term used in London to refer to their underground rail system.
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Examples of usage
- The London Underground is the oldest underground railway system in the world.
- I prefer taking the underground to avoid traffic jams.
secret
Done secretly or hidden from public view.
Synonyms
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.
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| covert |
Typically used for activities that are intentionally concealed, usually implying a level of secrecy and often connected to military or surveillance activities.
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| clandestine |
Used to describe secretive or concealed activities, often illegal or done to avoid detection.
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| hidden |
Describes something that is not visible or easily found, generally in a straightforward physical or metaphorical sense.
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Examples of usage
- They were involved in underground activities to overthrow the government.
- The underground resistance movement operated in secrecy.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "underground" in other languages:
🇵🇹 subterrâneo
🇮🇳 भूमिगत
🇩🇪 unterirdisch
🇮🇩 bawah tanah
🇺🇦 підземний
🇵🇱 podziemny
🇯🇵 地下
🇫🇷 souterrain
🇪🇸 subterráneo
🇹🇷 yeraltı
🇰🇷 지하
🇸🇦 تحت الأرض
🇨🇿 podzemní
🇸🇰 podzemný
🇨🇳 地下
🇸🇮 podzemni
🇮🇸 neðanjarðar
🇰🇿 жерасты
🇬🇪 მიწისქვეშა
🇦🇿 yeraltı
🇲🇽 subterráneo