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Definition of subterranean

subterranean

/ˌsʌb.təˈreɪ.ni.ən/
sub · ter · ra · ne · an
Adverb:subterraneanly
•
Plural:subterraneans
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subterranean Lexical Profile

subterranean Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Existing, occurring, or done under the earth's surface.

Example

"The explorers discovered a vast network of subterranean caves beneath the limestone hills."

2

Secret, concealed, or operating out of public view.

Example

"The novel explores the subterranean tensions running beneath the town's polite exterior."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person or creature that lives underground or operates within a countercultural or underground movement.

Example

"Jack Kerouac's novel portrays a group of bohemian subterraneans living on the fringes of 1950s San Francisco."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for subterranean

• Nearby Words

subsystem
subtask
subtenant
subterranean
subtest
subtext
subtheme

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin subterraneus, formed from sub- ('under') and terra ('earth, ground'), with the English suffix -an added.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Subterranean. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/subterranean
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