underground
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for underground, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Located beneath the surface of the ground.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use underground
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English undergrounde, from under + ground.
Full origin of underground →Frequently asked questions
What does “underground” mean?
The word “underground” means located beneath the surface of the ground. In plain terms, below the surface, or by extension, hidden from mainstream view — whether that's a resistance movement or an art scene.
How do you pronounce “underground”?
“Underground” is pronounced uhn-duh-GROWND (/ˌʌn.dəɹˈɡɹaʊnd/ in IPA).
How do you use “underground” in a sentence?
Here is “underground” used in a sentence: “The city has an extensive underground parking system.”
What part of speech is “underground”?
Depending on how it is used, “underground” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “underground” come from?
The word “underground” comes from Middle English. From Middle English undergrounde, from under + ground.
Is “underground” a common word?
“Underground” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “underground” have?
“Underground” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: located beneath the surface of the ground.
What is the difference between underground and subterranean?
Both words describe something located beneath the surface of the ground, but subterranean is more formal and technical, often used in scientific or geological contexts. Underground is the everyday term and can also carry the extra meaning of something hidden or secretive, which subterranean does not.
When does underground mean secret rather than beneath the ground?
Underground means secret or hidden from public view or authority when it describes activity, movements, or people operating outside official channels, as in an underground resistance or underground press. The literal meaning of beneath the surface applies to physical locations such as an underground tunnel or car park.
Can underground be used as a noun or an adverb?
Yes. Besides being an adjective, underground works as a noun for a secret organization or, in British English, for a subway system such as the London Underground. As an adverb it describes movement or position below the surface, as in the pipes run underground.