underpinning

noun

un·​der·​pin·​ning ˈən-dər-ˌpi-niŋ 

1

: the material and construction (such as a foundation) used for support of a structure

2

: something that serves as a foundation : basis, support

—often used in plural

the philosophical underpinnings of educational methods

3

: underwear

—usually used in plural

4

: a person's legs

—usually used in plural

Synonyms

• base
• basis
• bedrock
• bottom
• cornerstone
• footing
• foundation
• ground
• groundwork
• keystone
• root
• warp
• warp and woof

Examples of underpinning in a Sentence

the underpinnings of the theory have recently been called into question

the underpinnings of the bridge were seriously damaged in the collision

Recent Examples on the Web

Neutral-toned underpinnings, like this Chloé henley, and Gucci’s riff on the desert boot give it the extra edge necessary. —Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2024

The judge presiding over Truong’s civil litigation — which is separate but provided the underpinnings of the criminal complaint — is Amber Rosen, who is married to District Attorney Jeff Rosen. —Devan Patel, The Mercury News, 26 Oct. 2024

It’s based on the Lotus Elise The fact that Tesla built the Roadster from the underpinnings of a vehicle that is itself collectible adds to the electric car’s appeal. —Jeremy Korzeniewski, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2024

Public cloud has become the major underpinning of enterprise infrastructure strategies and innovation delivery. —Forrester, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

underpinning

noun

un·​der·​pin·​ning ˈən-dər-ˌpin-iŋ 

1

: the foundation used for support of a structure

2

: prop entry 1, support

3

: a person's legs

—usually used in plural