subcurrent

American

[suhb-kur-uhnt, -kuhr-] / ˈsʌbˌkɜr ənt, -ˌkʌr- /

noun

a not clearly revealed or formulated direction of thought, intention, action, etc., underlying what is manifested.

His words, though ostensibly friendly, betrayed a subcurrent of hostility.

Etymology

Origin of subcurrent

First recorded in 1900–05; sub- + current

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As a text, it hints at the subcurrent of popular culture that flows beneath our greatest literature.

From The Guardian • Oct. 29, 2012

The Rhine—romantic, cultivated, artificial, with a rough subcurrent and a muddy bed—through Germany.

From The Sowers by Merriman, Henry Seton

Baynell gave no outward and obvious sign of notice, but the subcurrent of brooding thought that occupied his mind was token of his evident comprehension and a nettled annoyance.

From The Storm Centre by Murfree, Mary Noailles

She talked volubly, and with just that pitch in her voice that betrays a subcurrent of excitement.

From Gordon Keith by Page, Thomas Nelson

There was a subcurrent of excitement in her voice, and the night seemed to grow more still as she went on speaking.

From Sunlight Patch by Harris, Credo Fitch

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023