underdog

American  

[uhn-der-dawg, -dog] / ˈʌn dərˌdɔg, -ˌdɒg /

noun

1. a person who is expected to lose in a contest or conflict.

2. a victim of social or political injustice.

   The underdogs were beginning to organize their protests.

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underdog British  

/ ˈʌndəˌdɒɡ /

noun

1. the competitor least likely to win a fight or contest

2. a person in adversity or in a position of inferiority

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Etymology

Origin of underdog

1875–80, under- + dog ( def. )

Example Sentences

A computer, however, might be ruthless about the chances of Cinderella and underdogs—just check out the Sagarin page, which now has Tulane soaking outside the Top 50.

From The Wall Street Journal

But the one that was the most fun was the 2002 World Series: the underdog Angels, the Disney team no one projected for a happy ending, rampaging through October and toppling giants.

From Los Angeles Times

In two first-round nail-biters this weekend, a pair of underdogs turned the College Football Playoff on its head in exactly the same way—with a game-wrecking interception.

From The Wall Street Journal

Paul was a massive underdog and his tactics against Joshua appeared to be to use his speed and footwork to stay away from the Briton's big punches.

From BBC

Paul, who is a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in response.

From BBC

Related Words

• dark horse
• longshot