Underling

usgb/ˈʌndərlɪŋ/
noun

A person of lower rank who has to listen to and obey someone more powerful.

He was just an underling and had to do what his boss ordered.
Visual representation of "underling" - A person of lower rank who has to listen to and obey someone more powerful.

Often appears as...

  • corporate underling
  • political underling

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "underling"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Professional Context

Used in workplaces to describe employees lower in the hierarchy.

Illustration for Professional Context
In the meeting, the director clarified the strategy to the underlings.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

Can suggest that someone is not important or lacks power.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
She felt like an underling, rarely given important tasks.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Obedience Implied

Suggests that the person must follow orders without question.

Illustration for Obedience Implied
The executive's underlings executed the plan without debate.
Visual representation of the word "Underling"

Never forget "Underling"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top