Meaning & Definition of Under in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: In a lower position than something else.

  Example Sentence: The cat is sleeping under the table.

• Definition: Less than or below a specified amount or level.

  Example Sentence: He is under the legal drinking age.

• Definition: In a state or condition of something.

  Example Sentence: She is under a lot of stress.

• Definition: To be subject to or controlled by.

  Example Sentence: The company is under new management.

• Definition: Having the characteristic of being lower in rank or status.

  Example Sentence: He feels like he is underappreciated at work.

Etymology

Origin: Derived from Old English 'under', akin to German 'unter' and Dutch 'onder'.

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: bajo

• French: sous

• German: unter

• Russian: под

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.