View synonyms for

underdeveloped

[ uhn-der-di-vel-uhpt ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

improperly or insufficiently developed.
Photography. (of a negative) less developed than is normal, so as to produce a relatively dark positive lacking in contrast.
developing ( def 2 ).

underdeveloped

/ ˌʌ�Ի�ə��ɪˈ��ɛ��ə�� /

adjective

immature or undersized
relating to societies in which both the surplus capital and the social organization necessary to advance are lacking
photog (of a film, plate, or print) processed in developer for less than the required time, thus lacking in contrast

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Word History and Origins

Origin of underdeveloped¹

First recorded in 1890–95; under- + develop + -ed ²

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

A parasitic twin is an underdeveloped conjoined twin that relies entirely on the host twin for survival.

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Cal Fire said the new maps would largely leave these weaknesses unaddressed, given that newer scientific approaches to address the problem remain too underdeveloped and experimental.

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“Their brains are underdeveloped and overexposed,” Grant said, “so parents also have to be very mindful.”

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Babies have an underdeveloped mechanism for maintaining their own body temperature and may develop hypothermia easily in a cold environment.

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Savaged agents who tell underdeveloped players they’re ready to go pro.

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Related Words

underdevelop underdo

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