underpinning

noun

un·​der·​pin·​ning ˈən-dər-ˌpi-niŋ How to pronounce underpinning (audio)
1
: the material and construction (such as a foundation) used for support of a structure
2
: something that serves as a foundation : basis, support
often used in plural
the philosophical underpinnings of educational methods
3
: underwear
usually used in plural
4
: a person's legs
usually used in plural

Examples of underpinning in a Sentence

the underpinnings of the theory have recently been called into question the underpinnings of the bridge were seriously damaged in the collision
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The unibody structure and assembly were essentially British, with mechanical underpinnings from Volvo’s Amazon/122 series. Robert Ross, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2025 Certain other kinds—like ovarian, endometrial, and even pancreatic, stomach, and melanoma—can share genetic underpinnings with breast cancer, so having these in your bloodline could up your risk. Erica Sloan, SELF, 1 Oct. 2025 That picture began to change in the early 2000s, as researchers uncovered the biological underpinnings of different breast cancer subtypes. Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 24 Sep. 2025 Their recovery toolkits combine medication that goes to work on the biochemical underpinnings of addiction with community, connection and accountability that reinforce their recovery. Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, Fortune, 21 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for underpinning

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of underpinning was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Underpinning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underpinning. Accessed 5 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

underpinning

noun
un·​der·​pin·​ning ˈən-dər-ˌpin-iŋ How to pronounce underpinning (audio)
1
: the foundation used for support of a structure
2
3
: a person's legs
usually used in plural

More from Merriam-Webster on underpinning

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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