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Definitions

underling

[uhn-der-ling] / ˈʌn dər lɪŋ /
NOUN
subordinate
Synonyms
STRONGEST
attendant
STRONG
aide assistant deputy flunky gofer helper inferior lackey minion peon scrub second serf servant slave
WEAK
second fiddle second stringer
Antonyms
STRONG
master superior

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Now that it seems he can’t hide from the story entirely, Hegseth is trying to wriggle out from responsibility by blaming an underling, Adm.

From Salon • Dec. 3, 2025

Previously known for: The U.K. version of “The Office,” as Ricky Gervais’ droll underling Tim and “The Hobbit” trilogy in the role of heroic Bilbo Baggins.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2024

What kind of terrible employer has an underling borrow against his own home to cover up his boss’s sordid lies and extra-marital affairs?

From Slate • Jun. 3, 2024

"The defence has sought to portray Cohen as a spurned underling who was obsessed with Trump and would stop at nothing to exact revenge," Ms Roiphe said.

From BBC • May 15, 2024

I will duly retreat to the position of the good volunteer, the invisible underling.

From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee