Synonyms for

Underworld

Verb / ˈʌndɜ:ˌwɜ:ld / Another word for underworld — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The underworld is the place where criminals and other people who do illegal things live and work.

Synonyms & similar words

hades scheol infernalregion netherworld hell gangland underbelly underground mafia syndicate cartel mob gang thug crook outlaw racketeer hitman assassin

Synonyms by register

Formal

netherworld abyss inferno

Informal

hell the pits the deep end

Literary

Hades Tartarus Styx

Antonyms

heaven sky heavens celestial upper world Olympus

Common collocations

  • criminal underworld
  • underworld figures
  • organized underworld
  • underworld economy
  • underworld boss
  • underworld activities
  • underworld crime

Word family

noun underworld

Usage note

Refers to the world of organized crime or, in mythology, the realm of the dead. It carries a negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The underworld is a dangerous place, so it's best to stay away from it.
  2. The police are trying to put an end to the criminal underworld.
  3. He made a lot of money working in the underworld.
  4. The underworld is full of people who are up to no good.
  5. The underworld is a secretive and mysterious place.

Quotes

  • In the underworld, loyalty is everything.
  • The underworld is a world of darkness and deceit.
  • The underworld is a place where the strong survive and the weak perish.

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