GOING UNDERGROUND Meaning and
Definition
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"Going underground" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of hiding or concealing oneself or something from public view or knowledge. The term is derived from the literal meaning of "underground," which pertains to the area beneath the surface of the ground.
This expression often conveys the concept of secrecy, subterfuge, or clandestine activities. It can be used to describe someone who retreats or withdraws from societal or public life, often due to fear, suspicion, or to avoid legal or social consequences. For instance, political activists, dissidents, or individuals on the run from law enforcement might "go underground" to avoid detection or capture.
Furthermore, "going underground" can also indicate a transition to a hidden or covert lifestyle, usually within an organized group or network. This can involve living a life separate from mainstream society, operating in secrecy, and communicating through encrypted or alternative channels to avoid surveillance or scrutiny.
Metaphorically, "going underground" can also describe a shift towards more unconventional, non-mainstream, or countercultural lifestyles or beliefs. It may describe an individual or group's decision to adopt a more discreet approach due to rejection or persecution by society. This can extend to artistic, cultural, or social movements that thrive outside established institutions or traditional norms.
In summary, "going underground" denotes the act of concealing oneself, information, activities, or lifestyle from public knowledge, with connotations of secrecy, hidden existence, and withdrawal from the mainstream.
Common Misspellings for GOING UNDERGROUND
- foing underground
- voing underground
- boing underground
- hoing underground
- yoing underground
- toing underground
- giing underground
- gking underground
- gling underground
- gping underground
- g0ing underground
- g9ing underground
- goung underground
- gojng underground
- gokng underground
- goong underground
- go9ng underground
- go8ng underground
- goibg underground
- goimg underground
Etymology of GOING UNDERGROUND
The phrase "going underground" originated in the 17th century and is derived from the combination of two separate terms.
1. "Going": The word "going" comes from the Old English word "gangan", meaning "to walk" or "to proceed". It has been used for centuries to indicate movement or action.
2. "Underground": The term "underground" is a compound word formed by combining "under" and "ground". "Under" signifies a position beneath or below something, while "ground" refers to the solid surface of the earth. In this context, "underground" refers to a subterranean level or the hidden world beneath the surface.
"Going underground" originally referred to the physical act of descending below ground level, typically into mines or tunnels. However, over time, the phrase acquired a metaphorical sense implying secrecy, concealment, or operating outside the mainstream.
