underperform

verb

un·​der·​per·​form ˌən-dər-pər-ˈfȯrm How to pronounce underperform (audio)
-pə-ˈfȯrm
underperformed; underperforming; underperforms

transitive verb

: to do worse than

intransitive verb

: to fail to do as well as expected
underperformance noun
underperformer noun

Examples of underperform in a Sentence

The report shows which schools are underperforming.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The shortfall has intensified tensions between the White House and ICE, with sources saying plans are underway to reassign at least a dozen ICE office directors nationwide who senior officials consider underperforming. Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 28 Oct. 2025 The peso had wobbled in recent days after a regional election spurred fears Milei would underperform in the midterm vote, prompting a $20 billion bailout promise from the US, which sees him as an ally. Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 28 Oct. 2025 Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded Berkshire Hathaway to underperform, warning that Warren Buffett’s succession risk and a slew of business-specific headwinds could weigh on the conglomerate’s earnings and share performance over the next year. Yun Li, CNBC, 27 Oct. 2025 Among other things, the model involves offering stipends to attract highly effective teachers to underperforming campuses. Silas Allen, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for underperform

Word History

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of underperform was in 1971

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Cite this Entry

“Underperform.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underperform. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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