Undercurrent

Webster's Dictionary of the English Language

·adj Running beneath the surface; hidden.

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

III. Undercurrent ·noun 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.