under the table

1 of 2

phrase

Synonyms of under the tablenext
1
: into a stupor
can drink you under the table
2
: in a covert manner
took money under the table

under-the-table

2 of 2

adjective

un·​der-the-ta·​ble ˈən-dər-ṯẖə-ˈtā-bəl How to pronounce under-the-table (audio)
: covert and usually unlawful
under-the-table payoffs

Examples of under the table in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Phrase
Joseph Stalin—the Soviet Union’s supreme ruler from 1929 to 1953 and a murderous tyrant legendary for drinking friends and enemies under the table—was a closet oenophile, the e-mail explained. — Frankie Mills, Air Mail, 27 June 2026
Adjective
The truth is, under the old system, plenty of elite players were there only for the under-the-table cash. — Rick Burton, Sportico.com, 21 Aug. 2025 In the meantime, many engage in under-the-table, unreliable work. — Colette Davidson, Christian Science Monitor, 23 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for under the table

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of under the table was in 1948

Rhymes for under the table

See All Rhymes for under the table

Browse Nearby Words

under the sway of (someone)
under the table
under-the-table
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Under the table.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/under%20the%20table. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on under the table

Nglish: Translation of under the table for Spanish Speakers

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