underlie

verb

un·​der·​lie ˌən-dər-ˈlī 

underlay ˌən-dər-ˈlā  ; underlain ˌən-dər-ˈlān  ; underlying ˌən-dər-ˈlī-iŋ 

transitive verb

1

: to lie or be situated under

2

: to be at the basis of : form the foundation of : support

ideas underlying the revolution

3

: to exist as a claim or security superior and prior to (another)

4

archaic : to be subject or amenable to

Examples of underlie in a Sentence

A tile floor underlies the rug.

The river is underlain by limestone.

We discussed the principles that underlay their methods.

A theme of revenge underlies much of her writing.

Recent Examples on the Web

Costa says almond syrup in place of demerara sugar helps showcase the amaretto while still preserving the bourbons underlying flavors. —David Thomas Tao, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Factors such as fitness level, underlying health conditions, and age can significantly affect a person's ability to meet a high step count. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Ld, Health, 4 Dec. 2024

Rather than ranking the carriers by size, CBS News looked directly at the underlying rates of unsafe driving violations like texting and speeding. —Jose Sanchez, CBS News, 2 Dec. 2024

An options structure can also reduce the maximum potential loss if the underlying stock’s price falls significantly. —Michael Khouw, CNBC, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Kids Definition

underlie

verb

un·​der·​lie ˌən-dər-ˈlī 

underlay -ˈlā  ; underlain -ˈlān  ; underlying -ˈlī-iŋ 

1

: to lie or be located under

2

: to form the foundation of : support

ideas underlying the revolt