underpinnings
nounUK /ˌʌndəˈpɪnɪŋz/
US /ˌʌndərˈpɪnɪŋz/
The strong parts underneath something that hold it up.
The underpinnings of the bridge keep it from falling down.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The basic ideas or beliefs that something is built on.
Trust and honesty are the underpinnings of a good friendship.
3. Clothes worn under other clothes, like a slip or petticoat.
She packed warm underpinnings for the cold trip.
4. The hidden reasons or causes behind something.
Scientists studied the underpinnings of the disease.