underside

noun

un·​der·​side ˈən-dər-ˌsīd How to pronounce underside (audio)
ˌən-dər-ˈsīd
Synonyms of undersidenext
1
: the side or surface lying underneath
2
: a side usually hidden from sight
specifically : the more unpleasant or reprehensible side
the underside of politics

Synonyms of underside

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Examples of underside in a Sentence

the underside of the table The book explores the underside of human nature.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The underside of this type of edible mushroom has tiny pores rather than gills. — Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 6 Aug. 2026 Pay close attention to where leaves meet the stem, the underside of leaves, and within the petals for any movement or tiny specks. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 4 Aug. 2026 Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to wipe the top and underside of each leaf. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 3 Aug. 2026 Footage posted on the Forecast Weather Greece Facebook page appeared to show two helicopters crossing paths at low altitude before the main rotor of the lower helicopter struck the underside of the one flying above it and crashed in flames. — Reuters, NBC news, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underside

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of underside was in 1660

Rhymes for underside

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Browse Nearby Words

undershrubby
underside
under siege
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Cite this Entry

“Underside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underside. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

underside

noun
un·​der·​side ˈən-dər-ˌsīd How to pronounce underside (audio)
ˌən-dər-ˈsīd
: the side or part lying underneath

More from Merriam-Webster on underside

Nglish: Translation of underside for Spanish Speakers

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