underpin
/ˌʌndərˈpɪn/
verb
- To support or strengthen something from below, especially a structure.
- The bridge was underpinned with steel beams after the earthquake.
- They will underpin the wall before adding another floor to the house.
- Engineers had to underpin the old building's foundation to prevent it from sinking.
- To form the basis or foundation for an idea, argument, or system.
- Scientific evidence underpins the theory of climate change.
- Trust and honesty underpin a healthy relationship.
- The principles of democracy underpin the country's legal system.
Antonyms