Meaning & Definition of word "Below"

Below

/bɪˈloʊ/

noun:

  • 1. The lower part or level of something.
    • Example: He looked down to see the ocean far below.

adverb:

  • 1. At a lower level or position.
    • Example: The temperature is expected to drop below freezing tonight.
  • 2. In a lower place than something else.
    • Example: The valley is located below the mountain range.
  • 3. In or to a place that is in a lower position or beneath something else.
    • Example: He lives in the apartment below us.
  • 4. In a lower rating or standard.
    • Example: The product received a score below average in reviews.

preposition:

  • 1. Lower than in a vertical dimension.
    • Example: The fish swam below the surface of the water.
  • 2. In a lower context or level than.
    • Example: You should refer to the guidelines below this paragraph.

Etymology

Old English 'belowe', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'beneden' and German 'unten'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

below the radar:

Not attracting attention; not noticed.

below par:

Not good enough; below expectations.

below freezing:

At a temperature lower than 0 degrees Celsius.

below the belt:

Unfair or inappropriate, especially in a hurtful way.

below standard:

Not meeting the required level of quality.

Related Words

beneath:

In a lower position.

under:

In a position directly lower than.

down:

In a direction away from a higher place.

lower:

Situated at a low level.

inferior:

Lower in rank, status, or quality.

Slang Meanings of below

Meaning: In a position of lesser visibility or importance.

Example Sentence: She's in the below tier of the competition.

Meaning: Referring to something of lesser quality.

Example Sentence: That movie was totally below.