undercut

Undercut is a term used in multiple contexts to describe anything that is recessed or cut beneath the adjacent surface, or, in pricing, a strategy of setting a lower price than competitors.

In business, undercutting refers to offering goods or services at lower prices than rivals to win sales. It can stimulate competition and lower consumer costs, but may erode margins and provoke price wars. In procurement and bidding, aggressive undercutting can influence terms or trigger adjustments.

In hairstyling, an undercut is a hairstyle in which the sides and/or back are shaved or clipped short while the top remains longer. Variations include fades, disconnected undercuts, and long-top styles. The cut requires regular maintenance.

In design and manufacturing, an undercut is a recessed feature that prevents simple removal of a part from a mold or pattern. It necessitates side actions, draft angles, or post-processing to release the part.

In dentistry, an undercut describes a notch or concavity on a tooth or restoration that can trap an impression, crown, or denture. Clinicians account for undercuts during preparation and fabrication to ensure retrievability.