underdeveloped
UK: ˌʌn.də.dɪˈvel.əpt | US: ˌʌn.dɚ.dɪˈvel.əpt
adj. not fully grown or developed
adj. (of a country or region) lacking advanced economic, social, or industrial infrastructure
The word "underdeveloped" combines "under" (Old English under, meaning "below" or "insufficient") with "develop" (from French développer, meaning "to unfold or grow") and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a state or condition). The term originally described incomplete growth but later became associated with economic and social progress, particularly in post-WWII discourse about global inequality.
The underdeveloped seedlings struggled to survive in poor soil.
Many underdeveloped nations face challenges in healthcare and education.
Critics argue that the term "underdeveloped" reflects outdated economic perspectives.
The region remains underdeveloped due to limited infrastructure investment.
Underdeveloped skills can be improved with proper training.