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undertow

noun un·der·tow \ ˈən-dər-ˌtō \
|Updated on: 16 Jun 2018

Definition of undertow

1 : the current beneath the surface that sets seaward or along the beach when waves are breaking upon the shore
2 : an underlying current, force, or tendency that is in opposition to what is apparent

See undertow defined for English-language learners

See undertow defined for kids

Examples of undertow in a Sentence

  1. Don't get caught in the undertow.

Recent Examples of undertow from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'undertow.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of undertow

1817

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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UNDERTOW Defined for English Language Learners

undertow

noun

Definition of undertow for English Language Learners

  • : a current in the sea or ocean that is below the surface and that moves away from the shore

UNDERTOW Defined for Kids

undertow

noun un·der·tow \ ˈən-dər-ˌtō \

Definition of undertow for Students

: a current beneath the surface of the water that moves away from or along the shore while the surface water above it moves toward the shore

Learn More about undertow

  1. See words that rhyme with undertow Spanish Central: Translation of undertow Nglish: Translation of undertow for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about undertow

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