Pronunciations (2)
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/ˌʌndə(ɹ)ˈwɜː(ɹ)k/
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/ˈʌndə(ɹ)ˌwɜː(ɹ)k/
Verb
To require too little work from; to work insufficiently.
Usage- Transitive
To work or operate in secret or clandestinely.
Usage- Intransitive
- Obsolete
- Examples
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More examples (1)
[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 do less work than necessary (on).
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Examples
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to underwork a painting
To do work for inadequate payment.
Usage- Intransitive
To injure by working secretly; to destroy or overthrow by clandestine measure; to undermine.
Usage- Transitive
- Examples
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But thou from loving England art so far, That thou hast underwrought his lawful king.
To do similar work for a lesser price than; to undercut.
Usage- Transitive
- Examples
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One mason may underwork another.
Noun
Subordinate work; petty business.
Usage- Uncountable
- Examples
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the underwork of the nation
An underneath structure, for example for physical support
Usage- Uncountable
- Examples
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the underwork of a road
underwork of marble
More examples (1)
underwork of the carriage