underarm

American  

[uhn-der-ahrm] / ˈʌn dərˌɑrm /

adjective

1. of, situated, or for use under the arm or in the armpit.

   an underarm deodorant.

2. underhand.

   an underarm pitch in softball.

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noun

1. armpit.

adverb

1. underhand.

underarm British  

/ ˈʌndərˌɑːm /

adjective

1. (of a measurement) extending along the arm from wrist to armpit

2. sport of or denoting a style of throwing, bowling, or serving in which the hand is swung below shoulder level

3. below the arm

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adverb

1. in an underarm style

Etymology

Origin of underarm

First recorded in 1810–20; under- + arm ¹

Example Sentences

Moutet has used the underarm tactic before, sending down six of them during his second-round win against Daniel Altmaier in Mallorca last year.

From Barron's • Jan. 18, 2026

The bowler must ask the striker if he or she is ready and then yell "play" as the ball is delivered underarm with at least one bounce.

From Barron's • Nov. 23, 2025

The bowler must ask the striker if he or she is ready and then yell "play" as the jingling ball is delivered underarm with at least one bounce.

From Barron's • Nov. 22, 2025

The two-time major finalist was incensed by opponent Daniel Altmaier serving underarm during their second-round match, leading to a terse handshake and an animated discussion following the German's win.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2025

As Cecilia turned toward her mother Robbie caught a whiff of underarm perspiration, which put him in mind of freshly cut grass.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan