underdog

Definition

A competitor thought unlikely to win.

Etymology

From under- + dog.

Example Sentences

• "They were the underdogs in the basketball competition."
• "In Athens, the Americans are underdogs to the Chinese and the Canadians (the Canadians!)"
• "The visit of a Championship side would not normally send a shiver down their spine but they knew that Wigan were underdogs who would snap at their heels and that they possessed a potent bite if they were not kept on a firm leash."

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