underdeveloped

[ uhn-der-di-vel-uhpt ]

adjective

1. improperly or insufficiently developed.
2. Photography. (of a negative) less developed than is normal, so as to produce a relatively dark positive lacking in contrast.
3. developing ( def 2 ).

underdeveloped

/ ˌʌndədɪˈvɛləpt /

adjective

1. immature or undersized
2. relating to societies in which both the surplus capital and the social organization necessary to advance are lacking
3. photog (of a film, plate, or print) processed in developer for less than the required time, thus lacking in contrast

Word History and Origins

Origin of underdeveloped¹

First recorded in 1890–95; under- + develop + -ed ²

Example Sentences

His chest was too small, his ribs underdeveloped and he was unable to breathe unaided.

From BBC

Miso executives believe the frying technology could be a huge boon for the company, claiming in a government filing that “Flippy’s automation of the fry station represents a potentially massive $3.5 billion revenue opportunity for Miso alone in a market that, importantly, still remains fragmented, underdeveloped, undercapitalized, and ripe with growth opportunities for a company with Miso’s first-mover advantage.”

From Los Angeles Times

The women are particularly underdeveloped.

From Salon

It is also expected to provide internet and telephone services in inaccessible and underdeveloped areas within the Sahel.

From BBC

The Getty’s first two Pacific Standard Time outings were anchored in the underdeveloped study of art history in Los Angeles — a specialized field without a mass constituency, but one that is key to an art audience.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• embryonic
• nascent
• undeveloped