Undertow
English Meaning
The current that sets seaward near the bottom when waves are breaking upon the shore.
- An underwater current flowing strongly away from the shore, usually caused by the seaward return of water from waves that have broken against the shore.
- A tendency, especially in thought or feeling, contrary to what seems the strongest: "As she talks nostalgically of her days of glory . . . a poignant undertow emerges” ( Tina Brown).