underpinning (ˈʌndəˌpɪnɪŋ
)
Definitions
noun
- a structure of masonry, concrete, etc, placed beneath a wall to provide support
underpin (ˌʌndəˈpɪn)
Definitions
verb
(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
Usage examples
Not that there was any intrinsic virtue in that, but it did give a certain underpinning of authenticity.
, Left, Right and Centre (1986)Most health professionals initially expressed positive views about the principles underpinning the Informed Choice leaflets (box 1).
British Medical Journal (2002)Refiners have struggled to turn ample crude supplies into higher refined product inventories, underpinning oil's price strength.
New Zealand Herald (2004)The consolation for countries paying the high prices is that they may be underpinning a measure of Middle East stability.
Times, Sunday Times (2004)Being `financially powerful' is just one of the four elements underpinning the agency's vision for itself.
, TOP MARKETING AND MEDIA COMPANIES IN THE UK (2002)