undercurrent

A current, as of air or water, below another current or beneath a surface.

An underlying tendency, force, or influence often contrary to what is superficially evident.

Running below or out of sight; hidden.

A current in a body of water or other liquid, or in the atmosphere, below the upper or superficial currents.

Figuratively, something at work below the surface or out of sight, as influence or feeling, which has a tendency opposite to or different from what is visible or apparent.

In hydraul. mining, an arrangement on the sluices which is intended to aid in saving the gold.

A current below the surface of water, sometimes flowing in a contrary direction to that on the surface.

Hence, figuratively, a tendency of feeling, opinion, or the like, in a direction contrary to what is publicly shown; an unseen influence or tendency.

Running beneath the surface; hidden.

a current which flows under the surface