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underdog

[uhn-der-dawg, -dog] / ˈʌn dərˌdɔg, -ˌdɒg /
NOUN
unlikely winner in a contest or struggle
Synonyms
Antonyms


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.

Sabalenka was the heavy favourite to beat underdog Madison Keys in the 2025 Australian Open final, but came unstuck.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

Given that hostile history, Steyer would enter the runoff as a distinct underdog, notwithstanding the many added millions he is poised to spend.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

The team from New York, a noisy city of self-promoters, is the quiet underdog.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

They can stay the underdog, feeling disrespected despite 11 straight wins.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

Jewish people have been the underdogs so often that they understand what it’s like to be an underdog.

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman




Vocabulary lists containing underdog


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