How Do You Spell UNDERHAND?

Pronunciation: [ˌʌndəhˈand] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "underhand" is often confused with "underhanded". The correct spelling is "underhand" with the stress on the first syllable. It is pronounced /ˌʌndərˈhænd/, with the first syllable sounding like "under" and the second syllable sounding like "hand". "Underhand" is an adjective that describes someone or something that is dishonest, deceitful or sneaky, while "underhanded" is the adverbial form of the word. It is important to use the correct spelling to avoid confusion and convey the intended meaning accurately.

UNDERHAND Meaning and Definition

  1. Underhand is an adjective that describes actions or behavior that are deceitful, dishonest, or morally wrong. It refers to actions that are covert, secretive, or done in a sly and sneaky manner, often with the intention of concealing one's true intentions or gaining an unfair advantage.

    The term "underhand" is often used to describe methods, tactics, or strategies employed by a person to achieve their goals, often at the expense of others or in violation of established rules or codes of conduct. Such actions are characterized by a lack of transparency or forthrightness, and can involve manipulation, cunning, or trickery.

    For example, in a business context, an underhand practice could be concealing important information from colleagues or partners in order to gain a competitive advantage. In sports, an underhand tactic could involve cheating, such as deliberately breaking rules or using performance-enhancing substances to ensure personal success.

    The term "underhand" is associated with negative connotations due to its association with dishonesty, betrayal, and unethical behavior. It implies a breach of trust and fairness, as underhanded actions tend to undermine the integrity of a situation or relationship.

    Synonyms for "underhand" include deceitful, sneaky, dishonest, sly, fraudulent, duplicitous, and shady. Antonyms include honest, ethical, transparent, and fair.

  2. • Secret; done by meanness or fraud; clandestine.
    • By meanness and fraud; by secret means.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNDERHAND

Etymology of UNDERHAND

The word "underhand" originated from Old English "underhand", which can be broken down into two parts: "under" meaning "beneath" or "below", and "hand" meaning "the terminal part of the forearm in humans, capable of grasping and holding". In its literal sense, "underhand" describes a position or action with the hand beneath or below something. Over time, the term began to be used figuratively to describe actions that are covert, sneaky, or done in a secretive or hidden manner.

Similar spelling words for UNDERHAND

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