Definition of undergirdnext
as in to sustain
to hold up or serve as a foundation for the theory of evolution undergirds virtually all of modern biology

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of undergird But there are key threads undergirding it. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 17 May 2026 The review found the company had a reasonable compliance program undergirding its systems of export control regulations. Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 5 May 2026 Strong statewide bans on cellphone use in schools, reinforced and undergirded by federal guidelines and district interventions, are a good step in the right direction. Weadé James, Boston Herald, 29 Apr. 2026 OpenAI is at the heart of a web of deals undergirding the artificial intelligence boom that has helped power the entire stock market higher. Rob Wile, NBC news, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for undergird
Recent Examples of Synonyms for undergird
Verb
  • Such faith can help to sustain residents of Cutud, where poverty and hardship are common.
    H.M.A. Leow, JSTOR Daily, 10 July 2026
  • Veteran Mathieu van der Poel rode hard and put Jasper Philipsen at the front with 250 meters to go, but Philipsen could not sustain his attack and was overtaken by Merlier.
    ABC News, ABC News, 10 July 2026
Verb
  • The director of personal training at Chelsea Piers Fitness told Harper’s Bazaar that when used correctly, the plates can improve circulation and lymphatic flow, supporting recovery and reducing fluid buildup.
    Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2026
  • Today, Tejada is studying health care in college with the goal of working for an organization that supports domestic violence survivors.
    Steve Maugeri, CBS News, 14 July 2026
Verb
  • The latest in Houston Salgado Araujo, 52, was driving to work with three other construction crew members when unmarked vehicles carrying federal agents began following his van, his family said.
    Julianna Bragg, CNN Money, 15 July 2026
  • Proof that the country our parents carried in their voices, their food, their music, and their sacrifices was never exaggerated.
    Rafael Peña, Miami Herald, 15 July 2026
Verb
  • New Hampshire lawmakers have rejected attempts to end life sentences for juveniles, but Tulloch's case could bolster future attempts.
    ABC News, ABC News, 13 July 2026
  • Hollywood industry representatives had warned the governor’s office that the new restrictions could affect the state’s production incentive program, which was just bolstered last year to an annual cap of $750 million.
    Stacy Perman, Los Angeles Times, 13 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Undergird.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/undergird. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster