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

Example sentences from the Web for underpinnings

British Dictionary definitions for underpinnings (1 of 2)

underpinnings
/ (ˈʌndəˌpɪnɪŋz) /

pl n

any supporting structure or system

British Dictionary definitions for underpinnings (2 of 2)

underpinning
/ (ˈʌndəˌpɪnɪŋ) /

noun

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