underpinning

noun

Pronunciation: ˌʌndərˈpɪnɪŋ

Definition

A solid foundation or set of ideas that supports or strengthens a structure, theory, or argument.

Examples

• The economic underpinning of the country's growth relies heavily on its manufacturing sector.

• She provided the theoretical underpinning for the entire research project.

• The engineers installed steel beams as an underpinning to prevent the historic building from collapsing.

Synonyms of underpinning

Words with a similar meaning to underpinning:

• base
• foundation
• basis
• cornerstone

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