Meaning & Definition of word "Underdog"

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    Underdog

    /ˈʌndərˌdɔg/

    noun:

    • 1. A competitor who is expected to lose a contest or a person who is at a disadvantage.
      • Example: In the championship game, the small-town team was seen as the underdog against the heavily favored city team.
    • 2. A person or group that is disadvantaged or oppressed, especially in a situation that would typically favor others.
      • Example: She always roots for the underdog in movies because she loves to see them triumph against the odds.
    • 3. A person or a team that is not expected to win but has a chance of success through effort or determination.
      • Example: The underdog politician surprised everyone by winning the election despite having very little funding.

    Etymology

    The term underdog originally referred to the dog that was losing in a fight.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    underdog story:

    A narrative of a person or group overcoming the odds.

    cheer for the underdog:

    To support someone who is supposed to fail.

    root for the underdog:

    To express hope or support for a competitor with less chance of success.

    Related Words

    champion:

    A winner, particularly in competitions.

    victor:

    A person who defeats an enemy or opponent in battle, game, or other contest.

    favorite:

    A contestant likely to win based on prior performance.

    Slang Meanings of underdog

    Meaning: The unexpected winner in a contest.

    Example Sentence: That team was such an underdog, I can't believe they took the trophy!

    Meaning: A person or group that faces adversity but continues to fight.

    Example Sentence: She's the underdog of our organization, always pushing through the challenges.