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Definition of underling

underling

/ˈʌn.dɚ.lɪŋ/
un · der · ling
Plural:underlings
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underling Lexical Profile

underling Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person of lower rank or status who works under the authority of a superior, often used disparagingly to imply a lack of power or importance.

Example

"The executive delegated all the tedious administrative paperwork to an underling rather than handling it himself."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

"Underling" carries a dismissive or pejorative connotation, implying that a subordinate lacks autonomy or importance; in neutral or professional contexts, "subordinate" or "junior colleague" is preferred.

• Nearby Words

underlayer
underlie
underline
underling
underlip
underlit
underlying

Word Origin & Etymology

Recorded in Middle English (late 12th century), formed from the prefix "under-" (beneath or subordinate) and the noun suffix "-ling" (denoting a person associated with a condition or diminutive status).

Cite this Entry

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