underpinning

[ uhn-der-pin-ing ]
/ ˈʌn dərˌpɪn ɪŋ /

noun

a system of supports beneath a wall or the like.
Often underpinnings. a foundation or basis: to uncover the emotional underpinnings of an illness.
underpinnings, Informal.
  1. underwear, especially women's underwear.
  2. the legs.

Origin of underpinning

First recorded in 1480–90; under + pin + -ing1

Definition for underpinning (2 of 2)

underpin
[ uhn-der-pin ]
/ ˌʌn dərˈpɪn /

verb (used with object), un·der·pinned, un·der·pin·ning.

to prop up or support from below; strengthen, as by reinforcing a foundation.
to replace or strengthen the foundation of (a building or the like).
to furnish a foundation for; corroborate: The author's conclusions are underpinned by references to experimental findings.

Origin of underpin

First recorded in 1515–25; under- + pin

Example sentences from the Web for underpinning

British Dictionary definitions for underpinning (1 of 2)

underpinning
/ (ˈʌndəˌpɪnɪŋ) /

noun

a structure of masonry, concrete, etc, placed beneath a wall to provide support

British Dictionary definitions for underpinning (2 of 2)

underpin
/ (ˌʌndəˈpɪn) /

verb -pins, -pinning or -pinned (tr)

to support from beneath, esp by a prop, while avoiding damaging or weakening the superstructure to underpin a wall
to give corroboration, strength, or support to