subcurrent

American  

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

noun

1. 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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Etymology

Origin of subcurrent

First recorded in 1900–05; sub- + current

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

subcurrent

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

From The Guardian ● Oct. 29, 2012

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

From The Blind Spot by Hall, Austin

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

I became interested and gradually took up with his speculation; for all my love of action I found that I had a strong subcurrent for the philosophical.

From The Blind Spot by Hall, Austin

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