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Definition of undercurrent : 1. A current below the surface of water, sometimes flowing in a contrary direction to that on the surface.
2. Hence, figuratively, a tendency of feeling, opinion, or the like, in a direction contrary to what is publicly shown; an unseen influence or tendency; as, a strong undercurrent of sentiment in favor of a prisoner.
3. Running beneath the surface; hidden.

Synonyms:

implication, suggest, tinge, undertone, show, undertow, flow, undertide, inkling, suspicion

inclination, tendency, trend, propensity, direction

insinuation, hint, trace, intimation

Usage examples:

• All that he had said that evening had carried the same perplexing undercurrent of a thing that he could not speak of, and always it seemed to point to the Spanish Woman. - "The Other Side of the Door", Lucia Chamberlain.
• Dylara caught the undercurrent of utter hopelessness in the woman's words, and she felt a sudden rush of sympathy well up within her. - "Warrior of the Dawn", Howard Carleton Browne.
• She began speaking quickly, an undercurrent of suppressed excitement in her tones. - "The Splendid Folly", Margaret Pedler.