View synonyms for undercurrent

undercurrent

[ uhn-der-kur-uhnt, -kuhr- ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a tendency underlying or at variance with the obvious or superficial significance of words, actions, etc.:
Even in his friendliest remarks, one could sense an undercurrent of hostility.
a current, as of air or water, that flows below the upper currents or surface.

undercurrent

/ ˈʌndəˌkʌrənt /

First recorded in 1675–85; under- + current

His voice is quiet, melodic, and often tinged with an undercurrent of mirth.

The religious undercurrent in soccer runs especially deep in World Cup years.

“There is a serious undercurrent here,” said Gardner, between sips from her tumbler.

The uproar shed light on the undercurrent of suspicion and distrust between the Obama and Clinton camps.

This may account for the sociological undercurrent of his work.

All through the sad duties of the next four days Felipe was conscious of the undercurrent of this premonition.

"You are singularly concerned in this man's life," said he, an odious undercurrent of meaning in his voice.

To tell you the truth, I have never put that undercurrent of consciousness into words until to-night.

He was a fizzle and a stick, he knew it, he knew nothing else, and there is an undercurrent of bitterness in him.

Jane discovered in Sophy and in Frances an undercurrent of positive affection that set from her child to her.

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