Definition of "undertow" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To pull or tow under; drag beneath; pull down.

2. (transitive) To pull down by, or as by, an undertow.

3. (intransitive) To flow or behave as an undertow.

noun

1. A short-range flow of water returning seaward from the waves breaking on the shore.

   • A strong undertow may sweep a returning swimmer off their feet but it does not carry them far from the shore.

2. (by extension) A feeling that runs contrary to one's normal one.