underlie

verb

un·​der·​lie ˌən-dər-ˈlī 

underlay ˌən-dər-ˈlā  ; underlain ˌən-dər-ˈlān  ; underlying ˌən-dər-ˈlī-iŋ 

transitive verb

1

: to lie or be situated under

2

: to be at the basis of : form the foundation of : support

ideas underlying the revolution

3

: to exist as a claim or security superior and prior to (another)

4

archaic : to be subject or amenable to

Examples of underlie in a Sentence

A tile floor underlies the rug.

The river is underlain by limestone.

We discussed the principles that underlay their methods.

A theme of revenge underlies much of her writing.

Recent Examples on the Web

While this particular episode will almost certainly blow over soon enough, the underlying issues are likely to remain. —Oliver Darcy, CNN, 17 July 2024

Respondents with underlying health conditions such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma were also more likely to report having long covid, as were White and Hispanic survey respondents. —Ian McMahan, Washington Post, 15 July 2024

More:July 4 fireworks caused brief but hazardous air pollution in Milwaukee Being exposed to too much ozone in the air can cause health problems like a sore throat, shortness of breath, coughing and headaches, especially for people with underlying health issues. —Madeline Heim, Journal Sentinel, 15 July 2024

The very young, the elderly and anyone with underlying health issues are especially at risk. —Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY, 13 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Kids Definition

underlie

verb

un·​der·​lie ˌən-dər-ˈlī 

underlay -ˈlā  ; underlain -ˈlān  ; underlying -ˈlī-iŋ 

1

: to lie or be located under

2

: to form the foundation of : support

ideas underlying the revolt