Synonyms of underling

underling

noun

ˈən-dər-liŋ 

as in subordinate

one who is of lower rank and typically under the authority of another

the real estate tycoon has a whole army of underlings to attend to the details

Synonyms & Similar Words

• subordinate
• henchman
• minion
• junior
• assistant
• inferior
• sidekick
• follower
• deputy
• attendant
• aide
• lackey
• steward
• retainer
• domestic
• adjutant
• flunky
• second
• aid
• mate
• menial
• coadjutor
• second fiddle
• helpmate
• helpmeet

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• superior
• boss
• leader
• chief
• head
• master
• foreman
• captain
• senior
• taskmaster
• headman
• helmsman
• kingpin

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of underling

Ellison is said to be a boss who is loyal to his underlings, particularly with his own hires. — Michael Schneider, Variety, 30 Sep. 2026

With her severe bob and icy demeanor, Miranda chills her underlings to the bone. — Jami Ganz, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Sep. 2026

Giamatti makes Jerry ferocious but not monstruous, a man who certainly likes barking orders at various underlings but loves making good theater even more. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 6 Sep. 2026

One of Driscoll’s underlings, Deputy Undersecretary Dave Fitzgerald, is also leaving, The Wall Street Journal reported. — Shelby Talcott, semafor.com, 1 Sep. 2026