underpin
verb
un·der·pin
ˌən-dər-ˈpin 
underpinned; underpinning; underpins
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
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
That reflects both the enormous valuations that software startups commanded during the 2021 venture boom and the degree to which generative AI has destabilized assumptions underpinning the sector.
—
Hugh Son, CNBC, 1 June 2026
Applying terrorism designations to criminal syndicates, Brazilian officials say, conflicts with domestic legal definitions and risks blurring distinctions underpinning international counterterrorism law.
—Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 1 June 2026
As owners increasingly prioritize time, individuality and longevity, the yacht builder’s emphasis on experience and wellbeing has underpinned its recent success.
—Rachel Ingram, Robb Report, 31 May 2026
Beyond satellite internet, these systems underpin GPS navigation, financial transactions, weather forecasting, military communications, emergency response, aviation, shipping, remote healthcare, and Earth observation.
—New Atlas, 30 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for underpin
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Hugh Son, CNBC, 1 June 2026
Applying terrorism designations to criminal syndicates, Brazilian officials say, conflicts with domestic legal definitions and risks blurring distinctions underpinning international counterterrorism law.
—Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 1 June 2026
As owners increasingly prioritize time, individuality and longevity, the yacht builder’s emphasis on experience and wellbeing has underpinned its recent success.
—Rachel Ingram, Robb Report, 31 May 2026
Beyond satellite internet, these systems underpin GPS navigation, financial transactions, weather forecasting, military communications, emergency response, aviation, shipping, remote healthcare, and Earth observation.
—New Atlas, 30 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for underpin
Cite this Entry
“Underpin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underpin. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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