Definition

A person or team that is expected to lose in a competition or struggle, often because they are at a disadvantage compared to others.

Example

The small school was considered the underdog in the championship game, but they played with great determination.

Conversation

Did you see the game last night?

Yeah, it was amazing! I love how the underdog team came back to win.

I know, right? It's always exciting when the underdog surprises everyone.

Absolutely! It makes the whole tournament more interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underdog is formed from "under" (meaning beneath or lower) and "dog" (from Old English "docga", meaning a dog or a powerful breed of dog). The term originally referred to a dog that was beneath another in a fight, symbolizing someone who is at a disadvantage or expected to lose.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'beneath' ('under') the competition, like a dog that is not expected to win a fight. This helps you remember that an underdog is someone who is expected to lose but may surprise everyone.

Visually Confused Words