undertow
nounUK /ˈʌndətəʊ/
US /ˈʌndərtoʊ/
A strong current of water that pulls you down and away from the beach under the waves.
The lifeguard warned us to stay near the shore because of the undertow.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A hidden feeling or influence that is opposite to what is shown openly.
There was an undertow of sadness beneath her cheerful smile.
3. The backward flow of water beneath the surface after a wave breaks.
The undertow tugged at our ankles as the waves rolled back out.
4. A quiet but powerful force pulling people in a certain direction.
An undertow of change swept through the old town.