underpinning

American  

[uhn-der-pin-ing] / ˈʌn dərˌpɪn ɪŋ /

noun

1. a system of supports beneath a wall or the like.

2. Often underpinnings. a foundation or basis.

   to uncover the emotional underpinnings of an illness.

3. Informal. underpinnings,

   1. underwear, especially women's underwear.

   2. the legs.

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underpinning British  

/ ˈʌndəˌpɪnɪŋ /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of underpinning

First recorded in 1480–90; under + pin + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

An aggressive approach from the baseline supports the American's opening shot, with a steely drive and work ethic underpinning his consistency.

From BBC

Investors currently don’t have confidence that “the counterparties underpinning Oracle’s robust backlog will prove durable,” or if renting out graphics processing units can boost earnings and free cash flow, Weiss wrote.

From MarketWatch

Chinese exports have been remarkably resilient this year, underpinning stronger-than-expected economic growth in the first three quarters even as domestic demand remained subdued.

From The Wall Street Journal

From February through October, Nvidia sold $147.8 billion worth of chips, network connections and other hardware underpinning the explosive growth of AI.

From The Wall Street Journal

From penalty taking and powering players' wellbeing to targeting their rivals' tactical weaknesses, AI is underpinning the Three Lions' plans for next summer's World Cup.

From BBC