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subcurrent

[ suhb-kur-uhnt, -kuhr- ]
/ ˈsʌbˌkɜr ənt, -ˌkʌr- /
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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.
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THINGAMABOB OR THINGUMMY: CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE US AND UK TERMS IN THIS QUIZ?
Do you know the difference between everyday US and UK terminology? Test yourself with this quiz on words that differ across the Atlantic.
Question 1 of 7
In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…
candystring
candyfloss
candypuff
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Origin of subcurrent

First recorded in 1900–05; sub- + current

Words nearby subcurrent

subcosta, subcover, subcritical, subcrustal, subculture, subcurrent, subcutaneous, subcutis, subdeacon, subdeaconate, subdeb
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use subcurrent in a sentence

  • A place where subcurrents of pain are metabolized, and from which erotic desire and creativity supposedly spring.

    The Whale Who Will Come Soon - Issue 105: Whale Songs|Rebecca Giggs|September 8, 2021|Nautilus

  • The old myth of age to youth and the subcurrent of sin with its stalking, laughing, subtle Mephistopheles.

    The Blind Spot|Austin Hall

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

    Sunlight Patch|Credo Fitch Harris

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

    Gordon Keith|Thomas Nelson Page
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