Aboveground

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /əˈbÊŒvˌɡɹaÊŠnd/

Origin

above + ground

Full definition of aboveground

Adjective

1. Above the surface of the ground.
2. (figurative)  Above the surface.
• 2012, Anna Lena Phillips, Sneaky Silk Moths, Last spring, the periodical cicadas emerged across eastern North America. Their vast numbers and short above-ground life spans inspired awe and irritation in humans—and made for good meals for birds and small mammals.
3. Not dead and buried; alive.
4. Existing, produced, or published by or within the establishment.

Antonyms

• (above the surface of the ground) belowground, underground
• (existing, produced, or published by or within the establishment) underground

Noun

1. The portion of society that is not underground.