Meaning & Definition of word "Under"
Under
/ˈʌndər/
noun:
- 1. A position or condition underneath something.
- Example: The under of the bridge is not accessible.
preposition:
- 1. In a position below or beneath something.
- Example: The cat is hiding under the table.
- 2. Less than; in a lower amount or degree.
- Example: He earns under $50,000 a year.
- 3. In a state of or subject to something.
- Example: She is under a lot of stress at work.
adverb:
- 1. In or to a lower place or position.
- Example: The ball rolled under.
- 2. In a lower or lesser amount.
- Example: The temperature is expected to fall under.
Etymology
●Derived from Old English 'under', akin to German 'unter' and Dutch 'onder'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
under pressure:
In a state of stress or urgency.
under the weather:
Feeling ill or unwell.
under the influence:
Affected by alcohol or drugs.
Related Words
over:
In a higher position than something else.
beneath:
In a lower position but often implies an element of subjugation.
subordinate:
Lower in rank or status.
Slang Meanings of under
Meaning: Under the radar
● Example Sentence: He's been working under the radar to avoid attention.
Meaning: Under the gun
● Example Sentence: I'm under the gun to finish this project by tomorrow.