underhanded
UK: ˌʌndəˈhændɪd | US: ˌʌndərˈhændɪd
adj. acting or done in a secret or dishonest way
adj. (sports) delivered with the hand below shoulder level
The word "underhanded" combines "under" (Old English under, meaning "beneath") and "hand" (Old English hand, referring to the physical limb or action). The suffix "-ed" turns it into an adjective. Originally used in sports (e.g., throwing "underhand"), it later acquired a figurative sense of secrecy or deceit, implying actions hidden "below the surface" of openness.
The deal was criticized for its underhanded tactics.
She threw the ball underhanded to the child.
Politicians often face accusations of underhanded behavior.
His underhanded remarks undermined trust in the team.
The underhanded pitch surprised the batter.