underarm

1 of 3

adjective

un·​der·​arm ˈən-dər-ˈärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)
1
British : underhand sense 3
2
: placed under or on the underside of the arm
underarm seams

underarm

2 of 3

adverb

un·​der·​arm ˌən-dər-ˈärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)

underarm

3 of 3

noun

un·​der·​arm ˈən-dər-ˌärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)
1
2
: the part of a garment that covers the underside of the arm

Examples of underarm in a Sentence

Adverb He threw the ball underarm.
Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
The subtle details are what make this piece shine — underarm vents prevent overheating, and the adjustable hood will shield his face from rain. Olivia Muenter, Peoplemag, 22 Nov. 2023 The underarm design is modern and practical, and its unique shape can elevate a variety of looks from casual to high fashion, all for an affordable price. Find it on Amazon Captivating Table Lamp For Mesmerizing Illumination The futuristic design of this acrylic table lamp is spellbinding. Poppy Morgan, Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 2023 Deodorant is a personal care product applied to the underarm skin to combat body odor. Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 12 June 2022 Razor bumps, strawberry skin, and semi-permanent underarm shadow? Sophie Dodd, Peoplemag, 12 July 2023 The seamless construction eliminates unsightly bulges and visible bra lines, while the underarm smoothing panels ensure a comfortable fit. Theresa Johnson, Rolling Stone, 11 Oct. 2023 As things heat up, underarm vents help control temperature and wick away sweat. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 14 Feb. 2023 Coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, tea tree, lavender, bergamot and lime work to neutralize any lingering odors in your underarm area. Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 10 June 2022 Massage it gently into the underarm skin with your fingers until it is fully absorbed. Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 12 June 2022
Noun
All serves are underarm, and once returned, shots can be played on the volley, after one bounce or after rebounding off the wall. Amanda Davies, CNN, 6 Feb. 2024 That being said, after 24 hours, our underarms were damp, and there was some body odor present. Melanie Rud, Peoplemag, 30 Aug. 2023 This topical anticholinergic medicine is available by prescription to treat hyperhidrosis on the underarms in adults and children aged 9 and older.4 Some high-strength OTC and prescription antiperspirants may cause itching and burning if used incorrectly. Cathy Cassata, Health, 28 Jan. 2024 What to Consider Over time, the stitching may need to be reinforced around the underarms and pockets. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 8 Jan. 2024 Reviewers report significant hair reduction in areas like underarms, bikini lines, and legs in just four to five weeks. Cristian Esteban, Rolling Stone, 4 Jan. 2024 The patch is a welcome departure from the currently available treatment lineup for the most prevalent type of hyperhidrosis, axillary or underarm. Maura Lynch, Allure, 21 Sep. 2023 Gusseted underarms allow for unrestricted movement. Meghan Carney, Field & Stream, 4 Jan. 2024 The brand’s original base layer offers moisture-wicking fabric with mesh underarms and back panels for ventilation. Joe Niehaus, Travel + Leisure, 13 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'underarm.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1816, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1923, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of underarm was in 1816

Dictionary Entries Near underarm

Cite this Entry

“Underarm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underarm. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

underarm

1 of 3 adjective
un·​der·​arm ˌən-də-ˌrärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)
1
: underhand entry 2 sense 2
an underarm toss
2
: placed under or on the underside of the arm
underarm seams

underarm

2 of 3 adverb
un·​der·​arm ˌən-də-ˈrärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)
: with an underarm motion

underarm

3 of 3 noun
un·​der·​arm ˈən-də-ˌrärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)
1
: armpit
2
: the part of a garment that covers the underside of the arm

Medical Definition

underarm

noun
un·​der·​arm ˈən-dər-ˌärm How to pronounce underarm (audio)
: armpit

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