underpinning

[uhn-der-pin-ing]

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.

underpinning

/ ˈʌndəˌpɪnɪŋ /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of underpinning¹

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

Example Sentences

They said this would include auditing and inspecting the source code and recommendation system underpinning the app, and rebuilding it for US users using only US user data.

From BBC

The saga that led to this point is well-known in Scotland but the reasons underpinning it remain hotly contested.

From BBC

None of this means that the hype machine underpinning most public expectations of AI has taken a breather.

From Los Angeles Times

Another longlisted writer, Jason Okundaye, wrote an article in the Guardian describing Boyne's views as "abhorrent", withdrawing his nomination because he felt "misled about the principles underpinning the organisation".

From BBC

But underpinning the excitement is a financial backdrop that has set alarm bells ringing for universities' admissions teams - and what's happened this week could have knock-on effects later down the line.

From BBC