| 释义 |
▪ I. † ˈundermatch, n. Obs.
[under-1 10 b.]
One who is no match for another; an inferior rival.
a1661Fuller Worthies, Denbigh (1662) 34 He was no contemptible Historian, but I confesse an under-match to Doctor Hackwell. 1769Goldsm. Hist. Rome (1786) I. 281 Claudius Nero..appearing an under-match for the cunning of the Carthaginian general.
▪ II. underˈmatch, v.
[under-1 10 a.]
1. trans. To undervalue by comparison.
1571Golding Calvin on Ps. lx. 10 He passeth foorth to the forreiners, whom hee far undermatcheth to his owne people.
2. To unite or bestow in marriage below the proper rank or condition.
1639S. Du Verger tr. Camus' Admir. Events 39 There is none that so jealously preserve their Nobility, as the German, nor more feare to undermatch themselves. 1708Cibber Lady's Last Stake iii, Dispose of the Child as soon as you can; rather under-match her, than not at all. 1831Scott Ct. Rob. xviii, A damsel..would think herself heinously undermatched, if wedded to a gallant whose fame in arms was yet unknown. |