Meaning & Definition of word "Underworld"
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Underworld
/ˈʌndərˌwɜrld/
noun:
- 1. A world or realm beneath the surface of the earth; often associated with the dead or the realm of the deceased.
- Example: In ancient mythology, the hero traveled to the underworld to seek counsel from the spirits of the dead.
- 2. A secret, often illegal or illicit society or organization, typically associated with crime or organized activities.
- Example: The police have been trying to infiltrate the underworld to dismantle the drug trafficking network.
- 3. A place where social evils are prevalent, often referred to in terms of a city's organized criminal activities.
- Example: The city was notorious for its underworld, where crime and corruption thrived.
- 4. In some mythologies, the mythical realm of the dead, often ruled by a god or goddess.
- Example: In Greek mythology, Hades is the god of the underworld, overseeing the souls of the deceased.
Etymology
From the Old English 'under' meaning beneath + 'world' referring to the earthly realm.
Common Phrases and Expressions
underworld figure:
A person who is involved in the criminal underworld.
dancing with the underworld:
A phrase used to refer to engaging with dangerous or illegal people or activities.
Related Words
nether:
Referring to the lower regions or realms, often associated with the dead.
hades:
In Greek mythology, the god of the underworld and the name of the underworld itself.
shadow:
A dark area or shape produced by a body coming between rays of light and a surface.
Slang Meanings of underworld
Meaning: The criminal underbelly or organized crime.
Example Sentence: He got caught up in the underworld, dealing with shady characters.
Meaning: Underbelly of society.
Example Sentence: The documentary explored the underworld of drug trafficking in the city.