underpinning

noun
UK /ˌʌn.dəˈpɪn.ɪŋ/
US /ˌʌn.dɚˈpɪn.ɪŋ/

The strong base that holds something up.

The underpinning of the old house was made of stone.

SYNONYMS

foundationsupportbasefootingprop

RELATED WORDS

structureframeworkgroundworkpillarreinforcement

OTHER MEANINGS

2. The ideas or facts that support a belief or argument.

Trust is the underpinning of a good friendship.

3. The act of strengthening or supporting something from below.

Workers did the underpinning of the bridge to make it safer.

4. A support worn under clothing, such as a foundation garment.

She bought underpinnings to wear under her dress.