Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Undercurrent
Un′der-curˊrent
,Noun.
1.
A current below the surface of water, sometimes flowing in a contrary direction to that on the surface.
Totten.
2.
Hence, figuratively, a tendency of feeling, opinion, or the like, in a direction contrary to what is publicly shown; an unseen influence or tendency;
as, a strong
. undercurrent
of sentiment in favor of a prisonerAll the while there was a busy
undercurrent
in her. G. Eliot.
Un′der-curˊrent
,Adj.
Running beneath the surface; hidden.
[R.]
“Undercurrent woe.” Tennyson.
Webster 1828 Edition
Undercurrent
UNDERCUR'RENT
,Noun.
Definition 2024
undercurrent
undercurrent
English
Noun
undercurrent (plural undercurrents)
- a current which flows under the surface
- (Can we find and add a quotation of Totten to this entry?)
- (figuratively) A tendency of feeling or opinion that is concealed rather than exposed.
- George Eliot
- All the while there was a busy undercurrent in her.
- The meeting was pervaded with an undercurrent of dread, as the managers tried not to admit firings were looming.
- 2012 May 9, Jonathan Wilson, “Europa League: Radamel Falcao's Atlético Madrid rout Athletic Bilbao”, in the Guardian:
- Although the crowd was predominantly red-and-white, there was also a Romanian flavour, which these days in football terms tends to mean there is at least an undercurrent of discontent.
- George Eliot