Meaning & Definition of word "Underworld"

Underworld

/ˈʌndərˌwɜrld/

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.

●From the Old English 'under' meaning beneath + 'world' referring to the earthly realm.

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.

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.

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.