undercurrent

noun

un·​der·​cur·​rent ˈən-dər-ˌkər-ənt 

-ˌkə-rənt

1

: a current below the upper currents or surface

2

: a hidden opinion, feeling, or tendency often contrary to the one publicly shown

undercurrent adjective

Examples of undercurrent in a Sentence

You could be pulled under water by the dangerous undercurrents.

Recent Examples on the Web

The ship transforms – its sleek, modern design pulses with an undercurrent of excitement. —Josh Rivera, USA TODAY, 9 Mar. 2025

The brand worked sartorial and mannish fabrics into outerwear with an eclectic undercurrent. —WWD, 3 Mar. 2025

Not to worry — the undercurrents of the transit will become clear once Venus stations direct. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Mar. 2025

Two tourists were reportedly killed by sharks in the Philippines after getting swept away by an undercurrent at a popular diving location. —Greg Norman, Fox News, 28 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for undercurrent

• countercurrent
• intercurrent
• overcurrent
• photocurrent
• concurrent
• decurrent
• noncurrent
• recurrent
• current

Kids Definition

undercurrent

noun

un·​der·​cur·​rent -ˌkər-ənt 

-ˌkə-rənt

1

: a current below the upper currents or surface

undercurrents of water

2

: a hidden current of opinion or feeling often different from the one openly shown