The minstrel fell, but the foeman's chain Could not bring his proud
soul under.
Moore.
Under is often used in composition with a verb to indicate lowness or
inferiority in position or degree, in the act named by the verb; as, to
underline; to undermine; to underprop.
Un"der, a. Lower in position, intensity, rank, or degree; subject;
subordinate; — generally in composition with a noun, and written with
or without the hyphen; as, an undercurrent; undertone; underdose;
under-garment; underofficer; undersheriff.
Under covert (Zoöl.), one of the feathers situated beneath the bases of
the quills in the wings and tail of a bird. See Illust. under Bird.
Un`der*act" (?), v. t. To perform inefficiently, as a play; to act
feebly.
Un"der*ac`tion (?), n. Subordinate action; a minor action incidental or
subsidiary to the main story; an episode.
The least episodes or underactions . . . are parts necessary or
convenient to carry on the main design.
Dryden.
Un"der*ac`tor (?), n. A subordinate actor.
Un"der-age` (?), a. Not having arrived at adult age, or at years of
discretion; hence, raw; green; immature; boyish; childish. [Obs.]
I myself have loved a lady, and pursued her with a great deal of
under-age protestation.
J. Webster.
Un"der*a`gent (?), n. A subordinate agent.