v. [UNDER-1 10 a.] trans. To perform inefficiently or inadequately; spec. to act (a part) insufficiently.
a. 1623. Buck, Rich. III., I. (1646), 9. Faulconbridge was appointed Admirall, with Commission to take or sinke all Ships he met;… who did not under act it, but made many depredations on the Coasts.
1775. Ash, Underact..., to perform in a manner below what is required or expected.
1847. Macready, Remin., Diary & Lett. (1875), II. 293. The play was so underacted by the people engaged in it, that it broke down under their weight.
1899. Daily News, 4 Dec., 6/6. It was reserved for Mr. Coghlan to underact the part.
