underling

noun

un·​der·​ling ˈən-dər-liŋ How to pronounce underling (audio)
: one who is under the orders of another : subordinate, inferior

Examples of underling in a Sentence

He takes all the credit, but most of the hard work is done by his underlings. the real estate tycoon has a whole army of underlings to attend to the details
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.
In the mornings, some managers might even dispatch an underling to scout a location for picnicking later on and proceed to give that person part of the day off. Kholood Eid, New York Times, 2 May 2025 The 18-month program was like a scene out of The Bear, with abusive head chefs berating their underlings. John Hyatt, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025 Everyone, apart from underlings such as housekeeper Mary (Jackie Clune), are dressed immaculately enough to grace the cover of pre-war Vogue. Jon O'Brien, IndieWire, 16 Apr. 2025 Forces deployed on the night of martial law But the generals — and especially their underlings — were not as committed to Mr. Yoon’s takeover. Choe Sang-Hun, New York Times, 10 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for underling

Word History

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underling was in the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Underling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underling. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

underling

noun
un·​der·​ling ˈən-dər-liŋ How to pronounce underling (audio)
: one who is under the orders of another : subordinate
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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