subterranean

[ suhb-tuh-rey-nee-uhn ]

adjective

1. existing, situated, or operating below the surface of the earth; underground.
2. existing or operating out of sight or secretly; hidden or secret.

noun

1. a person or thing that is subterranean.
2. a subterrane.

subterranean

/ ˌsʌbtəˈreɪnɪən /

adjective

1. Alsosubterraneoussubterrestrial situated, living, or operating below the surface of the earth
2. existing or operating in concealment

Derived Forms

• ˌsubterˈraneanly, adverb

Other Words From

• subter·rane·an·ly subter·rane·ous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of subterranean¹

1595–1605; < Latin subterrāne ( us ) ( subterrane ) + -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of subterranean¹

C17: from Latin subterrāneus, from sub- + terra earth

Example Sentences

China is setting out to chart an exquisitely detailed subterranean atlas across the country’s vast expanse.

From Science Magazine

Volcanoes set off a cascade of chemical changes in the environment that make their way to the subterranean rock.

From Los Angeles Times

There would be subterranean and above-ground parking, and at least 20% of the units are expected to be designated as affordable with subsidized rents.

From Los Angeles Times

That can cause the dynamic subterranean forces below volcanoes to produce increased quantities of magma, leading to more frequent eruptions.

From Salon

By the early 2010s, this long subterranean decline finally became impossible to ignore as drought dried up wells, land sank and canals collapsed.

From Los Angeles Times