Meaning & use
undercurrent
A current of water or air flowing beneath the surface, often in a different direction from the surface flow.
See it in a sentence
Swimmers were warned about a dangerous undercurrent near the rocky point.
A strong undercurrent pulled the raft off course despite the calm surface above.
A note on using this word
Very often used figuratively for a hidden feeling beneath a situation, as in 'an undercurrent of tension.'
Words with a similar meaning
This term is best learned through its definition and examples.
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
An underlying feeling, opinion, or influence that is not openly expressed.
The calm meeting had an undercurrent of tension that everyone could sense.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “undercurrent”, then compare your use with the examples above.