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

Leaders with dark triad traits often excel in interviews and initial impressions, as their confidence and charm can easily overshadow underlying tendencies. —Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024

Many small businesses are hesitant to adopt new technology because of high prices, training requirements, and an underlying fear of modernization. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 16 Dec. 2024

Sanctuary Wealth chief investment strategist Mary Ann Bartels sees the S & P 500 climbing more than 20% in 2025, with optimism surrounding technological advancements underlying her bullish case. —Hakyung Kim, CNBC, 16 Dec. 2024

These histories underlie the new Southern rock, too. —Will Hermes, Rolling Stone, 15 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