underpinning

noun un·der·pin·ning \ˈən-dər-ˌpi-niŋ\

Definition of UNDERPINNING

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

: something that serves as a foundation : basis, support —often used in plural <the philosophical underpinnings of educational methods>

: underwear —usually used in plural

: a person's legs —usually used in plural

See underpinning defined for kids

15th century

Synonyms: basis, bedrock, bottom, cornerstone, footing, foundation, ground, groundwork, keystone, root, base, warp, warp and woof

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