beneath

be-neath · preposition

imported

Definitions

preposition

  1. 1.

    In or to a lower position than; under.

  2. 2.

    At a level lower than; under the surface of.

  3. 3.

    Not worthy of; below the dignity of.

  4. 4.

    In or to a lower place; below.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    beneath contempt — Too bad to deserve even scorn.
  • •
    beneath one's dignity — Unworthy of one's status or self-respect.
  • •
    beneath the surface — Hidden; not immediately apparent.

Related words

Antonyms: above, over
See also: above, below, under, underneath
Synonyms: below, under, underneath

Etymology

From Old English beneoþan, from be- + neoþan ("below"), related to "nether."