Definition

Describing someone or something that is of mixed breed or not of pure lineage, often implying poor upbringing or lack of refinement.

Example

The horse was considered underbred, lacking the pedigree of its competitors.

Conversation

Did you see that dog at the park yesterday?

Yeah, it looked a bit underbred compared to the others.

I noticed that too; it seemed really friendly though.

Definitely! Sometimes those underbred dogs have the best personalities!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underbred → It is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath or below) and "bred" (from Old English "bredan", meaning to breed or raise). The word "underbred" refers to being of inferior breeding or lower quality in terms of lineage or upbringing.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beneath' ('under-') the standard of breeding or upbringing — that's why underbred means of lower quality.

Visually Confused Words