| ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷ verb
Etymology: under (I) + act
transitive verb
1. : to perform (a dramatic part) with less than the requisite skill or vigor
2. : to perform with restraint for greater dramatic impact or personal force
intransitive verb
: to perform feebly or with restraint
the rest of the cast knew how to underact for the greatest small-screen effectiveness — Saul Carson