underpinning
noun
un·der·pin·ning
ˈən-dər-ˌpi-niŋ 
1
: the material and construction (such as a foundation) used for support of a structure
2
3
: underwear
—usually used in plural
4
: a person's legs
—usually used in plural
Examples of underpinning in a Sentence
the underpinnings of the theory have recently been called into question
the underpinnings of the bridge were seriously damaged in the collision
Recent Examples on the Web
Autism’s genetic underpinnings were first uncovered through studies of twins in the 1970s.
—
Caren Zucker, The Atlantic, 6 July 2025
The second, made from 1967 to 1969—and still based on some Valiant underpinnings—offered serious performance, thanks to optional V-8 engines.
—Robert Ross, Robb Report, 20 June 2025
Also to folks that say, technology does not matter, business use cases over technology seem unaware of the fact that basic capabilities baked into the technical underpinnings are needed BEFORE any business use cases can come to fruition.
—Vipin Bharathan, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
The Truman vision—the world as orchestra, the U.S. President as conductor—may have run its course, though; its economic underpinnings are eroding and its political costs are mounting.
—Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for underpinning
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Caren Zucker, The Atlantic, 6 July 2025
The second, made from 1967 to 1969—and still based on some Valiant underpinnings—offered serious performance, thanks to optional V-8 engines.
—Robert Ross, Robb Report, 20 June 2025
Also to folks that say, technology does not matter, business use cases over technology seem unaware of the fact that basic capabilities baked into the technical underpinnings are needed BEFORE any business use cases can come to fruition.
—Vipin Bharathan, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
The Truman vision—the world as orchestra, the U.S. President as conductor—may have run its course, though; its economic underpinnings are eroding and its political costs are mounting.
—Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for underpinning
Cite this Entry
“Underpinning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underpinning. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
underpinning
noun
un·der·pin·ning
ˈən-dər-ˌpin-iŋ
1
: the foundation used for support of a structure
2
3
: a person's legs
—usually used in plural
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