substructure

[suhb-struhk-cher, suhb-struhk-]

noun

1. a structure forming the foundation of a building or other construction.

2. the foundations, piers, and abutments upon which the trusses or girders of the spans of a bridge rest.

3. any basic structure or organization.

substructure

/ ˈsʌbˌstrʌktʃə /

noun

1. a structure, pattern, etc, that forms the basis of anything

2. a structure forming a foundation or framework for a building or other construction

Other Word Forms

• substructural adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of substructure¹

First recorded in 1720–30; sub- + structure

Example Sentences

The pitch was built on a base called “the permavoid,” a substructure designed to support the field while allowing air and moisture to move under the root zone.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Moreover, this change in calcium levels occurred not only in the main body of the cell but also within substructures such as mitochondria -- the tiny power plants that cells use to produce energy.

Read more on Science Daily

There is a risk that the barges could come into contact with the “substructure” of the bridge, the McKees Rocks Police Department said in a statement early Saturday confirming the closure.

Read more on New York Times

Gaia data revolutionized studies of the dynamics of stars in our home galaxy, and has already led to the discovery of previously unknown substructures.

Read more on Science Daily

The state must replace both the bridge’s superstructure and part or all of the substructure, he said.

Read more on Seattle Times

Related Words

• arrangement 
• construction 
• education 
• establishment 
• formation 
• groundwork 
• measure 
• plan 
• precaution 
• preparedness 
• qualification 
• rehearsal 
• study 
• training