underpin
verb
un·der·pin
ˌən-dər-ˈpin 
underpinned; underpinning; underpins
1
: support, substantiate
underpin a thesis with evidence
2
: to form part of, strengthen, or replace the foundation of
underpin a structure
underpin a sagging building
Synonyms
Examples of underpin in a Sentence
a wall underpinned by metal beams
the central beliefs that underpin a free society
Recent Examples on the Web
Your support ensures Vox a stable, independent source of funding to underpin our journalism.
—
Ellen Ioanes, Vox, 10 Sep. 2024
However, what sets successful applicants apart isn’t just academic excellence but also their ability to demonstrate self-discipline, self-motivation, and unique personal qualities — all underpinned by robust executive function skills.
—Dr. Aviva Legatt, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024
This simple fact underpins big-logo luxury products such as a Louis Vuitton monogrammed holdall, the oversize grille of a Rolls-Royce, or the instant recognition of iconic watch designs like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.
—Chris Hall, WIRED, 6 Sep. 2024
The finding underpins almost everything about today’s AI boom.
—Billy Perrigo, TIME, 5 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for underpin 
Ellen Ioanes, Vox, 10 Sep. 2024
However, what sets successful applicants apart isn’t just academic excellence but also their ability to demonstrate self-discipline, self-motivation, and unique personal qualities — all underpinned by robust executive function skills.
—Dr. Aviva Legatt, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024
This simple fact underpins big-logo luxury products such as a Louis Vuitton monogrammed holdall, the oversize grille of a Rolls-Royce, or the instant recognition of iconic watch designs like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.
—Chris Hall, WIRED, 6 Sep. 2024
The finding underpins almost everything about today’s AI boom.
—Billy Perrigo, TIME, 5 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for underpin
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'underpin.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near underpin
Cite this Entry
“Underpin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underpin. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
underpin
verb
un·der·pin
-ˈpin
1
: to give support to
underpin an argument with evidence
2
: to form part of, strengthen, or replace the foundation of
underpin a structure
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