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Definition of underemployed

underemployed

/ˌʌndərɪmˈplɔɪd/
un · der · em · ployed
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underemployed Lexical Profile

underemployed Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Not having enough paid work, or working in a job that does not fully utilize one's skills, training, or academic qualifications.

Example

"Many recent college graduates find themselves underemployed in entry-level retail or service positions."

2

Not used to full capacity or potential (of equipment, capital, or resources).

Example

"The factory's machinery remained largely underemployed during the seasonal downturn in orders."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for underemployed
Antonyms
View all antonyms for underemployed

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'underemployed' with 'unemployed'; while an unemployed person has no job at all, an underemployed person holds a job that provides insufficient hours or fails to utilize their full skills and education.

• Rhymes for underemployed

• Nearby Words

undereat
undereducated
underemphasize
underemployed
underemployment
underestimate
underestimation

Cite this Entry

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