underlay

1 of 2

verb

un·​der·​lay ˌən-dər-ˈlā 

underlaid ˌən-dər-ˈlād  ; underlaying

transitive verb

1

: to cover, line, or traverse the bottom of : give support to on the underside or below

2

: to raise or support by something laid under

underlay

2 of 2

noun

un·​der·​lay ˈən-dər-ˌlā 

: something that is or is designed to be laid under

Examples of underlay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Set in sepia tones, the image will underlay a smaller and older stamp of a bison in a nod to philatelists. —Shi En Kim, AZCentral.com, 20 Mar. 2026

Judge Ruiz ruled Thursday that the second vote cured the problems that underlay her initial block on the deed transfer. —Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 18 Dec. 2025

Noun

The Australian star made a shimmering statement in the metallic optical illusion gown, which featured a nude underlay that looked like her skin showing underneath. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 16 Mar. 2026

Technical materials are also consistent between the two Lows, through up-to-the-date PopCush insoles, DuraCap underlays in high-wear zones and a SickStick rubber compound applied to the classic waffle pattern outsole. —Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for underlay

• aaa
• adonais
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway

Kids Definition

underlay

verb

un·​der·​lay

ˌən-dər-ˈlā

underlaid

-ˈlād

; underlaying

1

: to cover, line, or cross the bottom of

shingles underlaid with tar paper

2

: to raise or hold up by something laid under

underlay

ˈən-dər-ˌlā

noun