underpin

verb

un·​der·​pin ˌən-dər-ˈpin How to pronounce underpin (audio)
underpinned; underpinning; underpins

transitive verb

1
: support, substantiate
underpin a thesis with evidence
2
: to form part of, strengthen, or replace the foundation of
underpin a structure
underpin a sagging building

Examples of underpin in a Sentence

a wall underpinned by metal beams the central beliefs that underpin a free society
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Google successfully launched its most powerful suite of new Gemini models that underpin all of the company’s AI products, including its lightweight model Gemini Flash, which has been popular among developers. Jennifer Elias, CNBC, 27 Dec. 2024 Arthur Brooks PhD, the celebrated social scientist, Harvard professor, and Atlantic columnist, delves deeper into the macro-elements that underpin true complexities of happiness. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 Beyond international economic relief, sustainable development will have to be led by Syrians, for Syrians, and underpinned by private-sector activity. Karam Shaar, Foreign Affairs, 20 Dec. 2024 Though unavoidably associated with the oppressive regime of Park, Gen. Lee has been expertly written and performed as a patriotic hero defending the principles of honor and due process that underpin the nation. Richard Kuipers, Variety, 17 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for underpin 

Word History

First Known Use

1522, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of underpin was in 1522

Dictionary Entries Near underpin

Cite this Entry

“Underpin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underpin. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

underpin

verb
un·​der·​pin -ˈpin How to pronounce underpin (audio)
1
: to give support to
underpin an argument with evidence
2
: to form part of, strengthen, or replace the foundation of
underpin a structure

More from Merriam-Webster on underpin

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