undercurrent
UK/'ʌndəkʌr(ə)nt/US/'ʌndә.kʌrәnt/
C2
Definitions
n.
A flow of water below the surface
暗流，潜流
n.
A hidden feeling or tendency beneath the surface of a situation
潜在的情绪或倾向
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedunder-below, insufficiently
+
currentrun, flow; chariot, wheeled cart; carry
=undercurrent
under- (beneath) + current (flow) = a flow beneath the surface. Literally a hidden water current; figuratively a hidden mood running under a calm surface (an undercurrent of tension).
Common Collocations
- 1.undercurrent of tension紧张的暗流
- 2.undercurrent of resentment怨恨的潜流
- 3.dangerous undercurrent危险的暗流
- 4.sense an undercurrent感受到潜在情绪
Example Sentences
- 1.
There was an undercurrent of tension in the room.
- 2.
Swimmers should beware of dangerous undercurrents.
- 3.
You could sense an undercurrent of resentment.