Definition

Shrubs and small trees that grow under larger trees in a forest or wooded area.

Example

The forest floor was covered with underwood, providing shelter for small animals.

Conversation

Have you noticed how dense the underwood is in that part of the park?

Yeah, it's like a little jungle down there!

I love how it creates a natural habitat for wildlife.

Definitely! It makes walking through the trees feel so much more adventurous.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underwood is formed from "under" (from Old English "under", meaning beneath or below) and "wood" (from Old English "wudu", meaning forest or wooded area). The word refers to the vegetation or growth that exists beneath the trees in a forest.

Memory Tip

Think of something that grows 'beneath' ('under') the trees in a 'wooded area' ('wood') — that's what underwood means.

Visually Confused Words