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.
Meanwhile, resharing others’ posts or overusing carousels significantly underperforms. Justin Nassiri, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Macy’s closed dozens of underperforming stores and focused on improving the customer experience at the remaining locations. Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2025 But Reese pointed to the first-year Golden State Valkyries — who are sixth in the league standings despite building their roster primarily through the expansion draft — as a comparison point for how the Sky have underperformed this season. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 3 Sep. 2025 The activist said Pepsi should evaluate the potential refranchising of its bottling network, while streamlining its portfolio by divesting non-core and underperforming assets. Yun Li, CNBC, 2 Sep. 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 7 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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