subterranean

sub·ter·ra·nean

adj \ˌsəb-tə-ˈrā-nē-ən, -nyən\

Definition of SUBTERRANEAN

1

: being, lying, or operating under the surface of the earth

2

: existing or working in secret : hidden <a subterranean network of criminals>

— sub·ter·ra·nean·ly also sub·ter·ra·neous·ly adverb

Variants of SUBTERRANEAN

sub·ter·ra·nean also sub·ter·ra·neous \-nē-əs, -nyəs\

Examples of SUBTERRANEAN

1. <a subterranean bunker that supposedly could withstand even an atomic blast>

Origin of SUBTERRANEAN

Latin subterraneus, from sub- + terra earth — more at thirst

First Known Use: 1603

Related to SUBTERRANEAN

Synonyms: subsurface, belowground, underground

Antonyms: aboveground, surface

Other Geology Terms

anthracite, boulder, cwm, erratic, igneous, intrusive, mesa, sedimentary, silt, swale

Rhymes with SUBTERRANEAN

Lithuanian, Pennsylvanian, Pomeranian, Ruritanian