underpin

verb

un·​der·​pin ˌən-dər-ˈpin 

underpinned; underpinning; underpins

transitive verb

1

: support, substantiate

underpin a thesis with evidence

2

: to form part of, strengthen, or replace the foundation of

underpin a structure

underpin a sagging building

Synonyms of underpin

• sustain
• carry
• support
• bolster

Examples of underpin in a Sentence

a wall underpinned by metal beams

the central beliefs that underpin a free society

Recent Examples on the Web

Those opposing traits underpin everything from solid matter to superconductors. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 2 Jan. 2026

This belief that underpins his critique of visual dominance in both artmaking and public engagement. —Hung Duong, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2026

Elsewhere, investment strategists also pointed to strong loan and deposit growth, which is expected to further underpin the sector's resilience in 2026. —Hugh Leask, CNBC, 31 Dec. 2025

As discussed with the World Economic Forum, erasing this labor supply hollows out the tax base that underpins the American middle class. —Katica Roy, Fortune, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1522, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for underpin

• aneurin
• crystallin
• eosin
• mandolin
• porphyrin
• violin
• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• deerskin
• foreskin

Kids Definition

underpin

verb

un·​der·​pin -ˈpin 

1

: to give support to

underpin an argument with evidence

2

: to form part of, strengthen, or replace the foundation of

underpin a structure