underdog
UK: ˈʌndədɒɡ | US: ˈʌndərdɔːɡ
n. a competitor or party perceived to be at a disadvantage and expected to lose
n. a person or group that is persistently mistreated or disadvantaged
The term "underdog" originated in 19th-century betting slang, where the weaker animal in a dogfight or other contest was literally the one "under" (beneath) its opponent. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe any disadvantaged competitor or oppressed individual. The morpheme "dog" retains its literal animal reference but now symbolizes struggle or competition.
The small-town team was the underdog but won the championship.
She always roots for the underdog in political debates.
Despite being the underdog, the startup outperformed industry giants.
The film tells the inspiring story of an underdog overcoming adversity.
Underdogs often surprise critics with their determination.