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adjective Uncommon

subterranean

suhb-tuh-RAY-nee-uhn

Subterranean (adjective) means Located below the ground. Example: “Tourists explored a network of subterranean tunnels beneath the old city.”

adjective
1
Located below the ground.
"Tourists explored a network of subterranean tunnels beneath the old city."
2
Hidden or operating in secret.
"A subterranean resistance movement had been organizing for months."

How to use subterranean

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUnderground, either literally (below the earth) or figuratively (hidden from view).

Common pairings
subterranean tunnel subterranean river subterranean world

Word forms

subterraneans plural

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Tourists explored a network of _____ tunnels beneath the old city.

Etymology

From Latin subterraneus, from sub- ("under") plus terra ("earth").

Origin: Latin

Antonyms

aboveground superterranean

Related words

Rhymes for subterranean

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Frequently asked questions

What does “subterranean” mean?

The word “subterranean” means located below the ground. In plain terms, underground, either literally (below the earth) or figuratively (hidden from view).

How do you pronounce “subterranean”?

“Subterranean” is pronounced suhb-tuh-RAY-nee-uhn (/ˌsʌbtəˈɹeɪniən/ in IPA).

How do you use “subterranean” in a sentence?

Here is “subterranean” used in a sentence: “Tourists explored a network of subterranean tunnels beneath the old city.”

What is another word for “subterranean”?

Words with a similar meaning to “subterranean” include belowground, chthonian, chthonic and cuniculate.

What is the opposite of “subterranean”?

The opposite of “subterranean” — its antonyms — are aboveground and superterranean.

What part of speech is “subterranean”?

“Subterranean” is an adjective.

Where does the word “subterranean” come from?

The word “subterranean” comes from Latin. From Latin subterraneus, from sub- ("under") plus terra ("earth").

Is “subterranean” a common word?

“Subterranean” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial