# undercurrent

/ˈəndɝˌkɝənt/ (US) · /ˌʌndəkˈʌɹənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/undercurrent
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

a flow of water under the surface that you cannot see from above. You also use it for a hidden feeling or mood among people.

For teachers: a subsurface flow of water moving in a different direction from the surface current. Extended to hidden attitudes or tendencies running beneath overt discourse or behaviour.

## Examples

- A strong undercurrent pulls swimmers away from the beach.
- The meeting seems calm, but an undercurrent of anger runs through the team after the layoffs.
- Beneath the town's festive preparations ran an undercurrent of grief for the fishermen lost in the winter storm.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by 'of' to name the hidden feeling, as in 'an undercurrent of tension'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.