Undertow

Pronunciation: /ˈʌndərˌtoʊ/

Definitions of undertow

noun a strong current flowing below the surface of the water, especially one that pulls objects down and under

Example Sentences

A1 I got caught in an undertow while swimming at the beach.

A2 The lifeguard warned us about the dangerous undertow near the pier.

B1 The strong undertow made it difficult for the swimmers to stay afloat.

B2 Experienced surfers know how to navigate the undertow to catch the best waves.

C1 The diver was pulled down by the powerful undertow, but managed to swim back to the surface.

C2 The sailors were trained to recognize the signs of an undertow and take necessary precautions.

Examples of undertow in a Sentence

formal The strong undertow made swimming in the ocean dangerous.

informal Watch out for the undertow when you're in the water.

slang Dude, that undertow almost pulled me under!

figurative She felt like she was caught in an emotional undertow after the breakup.

Grammatical Forms of undertow

• past tense: undertowed
• plural: undertows
• comparative: more undertow
• superlative: most undertow
• present tense: undertow
• future tense: will undertow
• perfect tense: have undertowed
• continuous tense: is undertowing
• singular: undertow
• positive degree: undertow
• infinitive: to undertow
• gerund: undertowing
• participle: undertowed

Origin and Evolution of undertow

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Old English

Story behind the word: The word 'undertow' originated from the Old English word 'under' meaning beneath and 'tow' meaning pull or drag.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe the strong current beneath the surface of the water that pulls objects down, the word 'undertow' has evolved to also refer to a hidden danger or risk in various situations.