underpinning

1 of 2

noun

un·​der·​pin·​ning ˈən-dər-ˌpi-niŋ 

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 plural

the philosophical underpinnings of educational methods

3

: underwear

—usually plural

4

: a person's legs

—usually plural

underpinning

2 of 2

present participle of underpin

Synonyms of underpinning

Noun

• basis
• foundation
• bedrock
• cornerstone

Examples of underpinning in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

Mostly, the war is a constant underpinning, shifting the dynamics of their personal and professional lives in various ways. — Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 2026

Summary Toyota's new C-HR+ electric SUV signals a serious EV commitment, presenting a larger, sharper-looking model distinct from its hybrid counterpart, built on bZ4X underpinnings. — Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

However, the political underpinnings of that panic are rarely identified and challenged. — Literary Hub, 13 Aug. 2026

Having sought to upend the global maritime order — the underpinning of the global goods trade, energy flows, food supplies, and internet communications — China now seeks the trust of smaller countries to shape the digital one. — Andy Browne, semafor.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for underpinning

• beginning
• binning
• dinning
• ginning
• grinning
• inning
• pinning
• sinning
• skinning
• spinning
• thinning
• tinning

Kids Definition

underpinning

noun

un·​der·​pin·​ning ˈən-dər-ˌpin-iŋ 

1

: the foundation used for support of a structure

2

: prop entry 1, support

3

: a person's legs

—usually used in plural