Definition

The soft or vulnerable part of something, often referring to a hidden or less visible area that may be weak or corrupt.

Example

The documentary explored the underbelly of the city, revealing its hidden problems.

Conversation

Did you hear about that documentary on the city's underbelly?

Yeah, it was eye-opening to see what goes on behind the scenes.

Exactly! I never realized how many issues lurk in the underbelly of our community.

It's important to shine a light on those topics, for sure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underbelly → It is formed from "under" (from Old English "under", meaning beneath or below) and "belly" (from Old English "belly", meaning the abdomen or stomach). The word "underbelly" refers to the underside or vulnerable part of something, often used metaphorically to describe a hidden or less visible aspect.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beneath' ('under') and the 'abdomen' ('belly') — this helps you remember that 'underbelly' refers to the hidden or vulnerable underside of something.

Visually Confused Words