Definition

To experience or go through something, especially something difficult or challenging.

Example

She had to undergo surgery to fix her knee injury.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you had to undergo some serious training for that marathon.

Yeah, it was tough, but I feel so much stronger now.

I can imagine! What kind of exercises did you have to do to undergo that level of fitness?

Mostly running, but I also added some strength training to help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Undergo is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath or below) and "go" (meaning to move or proceed). The word describes the act of moving through or experiencing something that is beneath or less visible, often implying a process of change or suffering.

Memory Tip

Think of experiencing something that is 'beneath' you ('under-') as you 'move through' it ('go'). This helps you remember that to undergo means to experience or endure something.

Visually Confused Words