from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Underwork \Un`der*work"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Underworked}or
{Underwrought}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Underworking}.]
1. To injure by working secretly; to destroy or overthrow by
clandestine measure; to undermine.
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But thou from loving England art so far,
That thou hast underwrought his lawful king. --Shak.
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2. To expend too little work upon; as, to underwork a
painting. --Dryden.
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3. To do like work at a less price than; as, one mason may
underwork another.
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