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
Crucially, this digital trail is underpinned by forensic science.
—
Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 27 Apr. 2026
Ditto the sophisticated modulations and subtle rhythmic shifts that underpin Puth’s best songs.
—George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026
In November, the agency announced a separate set of proposals that would dismantle several other rules underpinning the law, including changes that would hinder agencies’ ability to protect species from rapid global warming impacts.
—ArsTechnica, 24 Apr. 2026
The post-oil economy will have to be powered by something, though, so the Eye of Sauron will turn its gaze elsewhere — and because the infrastructure underpinning renewable energy relies on critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs), places with access to them will fall within its sights.
—Big Think, 22 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for underpin
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Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 27 Apr. 2026
Ditto the sophisticated modulations and subtle rhythmic shifts that underpin Puth’s best songs.
—George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026
In November, the agency announced a separate set of proposals that would dismantle several other rules underpinning the law, including changes that would hinder agencies’ ability to protect species from rapid global warming impacts.
—ArsTechnica, 24 Apr. 2026
The post-oil economy will have to be powered by something, though, so the Eye of Sauron will turn its gaze elsewhere — and because the infrastructure underpinning renewable energy relies on critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs), places with access to them will fall within its sights.
—Big Think, 22 Apr. 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 28 Apr. 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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