With ref. to physical orientation on a vertical axis: (a) directly beneath (sth.), underneath; also, beneath and supporting (sb.), with (sb.) atop; (b) below and adjacent to (a vertical structure); also, at the feet of (a horse); (c) at a lower elevation than and alongside (a mountain, wood, etc.); also, down in (a valley).

With ref. to a visual top-to-bottom orientation: below (a part of the body), downward from; ?also, adjacent to or below (a swelling).

With ref. to a horizontal orientation: (a) stretched out beneath (a coverlet); also, ?spread in a layer beneath (a piece of fish); (b) on the underside of (sth.).

With ref. to an interior-exterior axis: beneath the surface of the earth under (sb.).

(a) In a position so as to be protectively covered or sheltered by (sth.), underneath; also, in a position so as to be concealed by (sth.), under; also, in fig. contexts: beneath the outer appearance of (sth.), concealed by; ~ magnificence, with (someone’s) protection or support; (b) positioned beneath (someone’s feet); also, in a position so as to be trampled beneath (horses’ feet), beneath; (c) ~ banere of crist, enjoying divine protection or leadership in battle; ~ penoun, bearing (someone’s) pennon, i.e., under the military leadership (of sb.); (d) by authority of (an official document), in a document bearing (an authenticating seal).

Less than (a specified amount).

(a) In subordination to (sb., God), under the rule or command of; also, below (sb.) in rank, spiritual status, or position; (b) subject to (someone’s rule); at (someone’s command); (c) subject to (a condition or stipulation).