underground
|un-der-ground|
🇺🇸
/ˈʌndərˌɡraʊnd/
🇬🇧
/ˈʌndəˌɡraʊnd/
beneath the surface
Etymology
'underground' originates from Old English, specifically the words 'under' meaning 'beneath' and 'grund' meaning 'ground'.
'undergrund' transformed into the Middle English word 'underground', and eventually became the modern English word 'underground'.
Initially, it meant 'beneath the ground', but over time it evolved to include meanings related to secrecy and hidden activities.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a system of trains that run below the ground in a city.
The London Underground is one of the oldest in the world.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
situated, occurring, or operating below the surface of the earth.
The underground cave was filled with stalactites.
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Adjective 2
secret or hidden, especially in opposition to an established system.
The underground movement worked to overthrow the regime.
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Adverb 1
beneath the surface of the ground.
The pipes run underground to the main building.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45