Underwork

/ˌʌndə(ɹ)ˈwɜː(ɹ)k/ · verb

Meaning

(transitive) To require too little work from; to work insufficiently..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To require too little work from; to work insufficiently.
2. (intransitive, obsolete) To work or operate in secret or clandestinely.
3. (ambitransitive) To do less work than necessary (on).
4. (intransitive) To do work for inadequate payment.
5. (transitive) To injure by working secretly; to destroy or overthrow by clandestine measure; to undermine.
6. (transitive) To do similar work for a lesser price than; to undercut.
7. Subordinate work; petty business.

Example Sentences

[H]e raiſeth (in priuate) a nevv Inſtrument, one Sertorius Macro, and by him vndervvorketh, diſcouers the others Coũſells [i.e., counsels], his Means, his Ends, […]

to underwork a painting

But thou from loving England art so far, That thou hast underwrought his lawful king.

One mason may underwork another.

the underwork of the nation

Synonyms for underwork

Antonyms for underwork

Related Words

Word Forms

• underworks
• underworking
• underworked
• underwrought

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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