Acting in a secret, dishonest, or deceptive manner; not straightforward or above board. Describes sneaky or unethical behavior.
Originally from the literal sense of throwing or bowling with the hand kept low (under-handed), which was considered less honorable than overhand throws. The metaphorical sense of secretive or dishonest behavior developed in the 19th century.
The term 'underhanded' comes from sports where underhand throws were seen as less skillful and honorable than overhand ones - this physical metaphor perfectly captured the moral concept of doing things in a 'low' or sneaky way rather than openly and honestly.
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