undercurrent

noun

un·​der·​cur·​rent ˈən-dər-ˌkər-ənt 

-ˌkə-rənt

1

: a current below the upper currents or surface

2

: a hidden opinion, feeling, or tendency often contrary to the one publicly shown

undercurrent adjective

Examples of undercurrent in a Sentence

You could be pulled under water by the dangerous undercurrents.

Recent Examples on the Web

By contrast, Trump was tapping a powerful undercurrent: The deeply unpopular Biden record, especially on the economy. —Shawn Tully, Fortune, 2 Nov. 2024

Water poured into the streets, sweeping cars and people away in its undercurrents. —Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 31 Oct. 2024

Maybe the focus on behavior misses the undercurrent of emotions that makes all the behavior meaningful, as our own emotions do. —Kathryn Schulz, The New Yorker, 28 Oct. 2024

The fragrance has a touch of pine, with a strong sandalwood and amber undercurrent that pairs well with your surroundings. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

undercurrent

noun

un·​der·​cur·​rent -ˌkər-ənt 

-ˌkə-rənt

1

: a current below the upper currents or surface

undercurrents of water

2

: a hidden current of opinion or feeling often different from the one openly shown