undergo

[ uhn-der-goh ]

verb (used with object)

, un·der·went [uhn-der-, went], un·der·gone [uhn-der-, gawn, ‐-, gon], un·der·go·ing.

1. to be subjected to; experience; pass through:

   to undergo surgery.

   Antonyms: avoid

2. to endure; sustain; suffer:

   to undergo sustained deprivation.

   Synonyms: tolerate, bear

undergo

/ ˌʌndəˈɡəʊ /

verb

1. tr to experience, endure, or sustain

   to undergo a dramatic change of feelings

Derived Forms

• ˈunderˌgoer, noun

Other Words From

• un·der·go·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of undergo¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English undergon, Old English undergān. See under-, go ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of undergo¹

Old English: earlier meanings were more closely linked with the senses of under and go

Example Sentences

"We welcome any research into dystonia, but it is crucial that new treatments undergo thorough scrutiny before being considered for widespread use."

From BBC

After Edward elects to undergo an experimental medical treatment, he begins to transform — his old face literally crumbles off — and the theme accentuates his melancholy and metamorphosis with dark beauty and sludgy textures.

From Los Angeles Times

They had been staying at Crossroads Village but had to leave while it underwent renovations.

From Los Angeles Times

The Home Office said the scheme had taken dangerous weapons "off our streets" and that compensation claims had "undergone stringent review".

From BBC

This is his first time testifying in court, even though he has undergone multiple trials since 2020 - all widely seen as politically motivated.

From BBC

Related Words

• bear
• endure
• experience
• go through
• have
• meet with
• see
• suffer
• sustain
• withstand

When To Use

What is another way to say undergo?

To undergo something is to be subjected to or to endure that thing. How does undergo differ from experience? Find out on Thesaurus.com.