foundation
fown-DAY-shun
/faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
The lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically below ground level; the basis or groundwork of anything.
In engineering, it's the critical interface between the structure and the soil.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'fundatio,' from 'fundus' meaning 'bottom' or 'base.' It is the same root found in 'profound' (deep/at the bottom).
Word relationships
- base: Base is general; foundation implies a structural necessity that supports a load.
Commonly confused with
- footing: A footing is a specific part of a foundation that spreads the load over the soil.
Word family
- found (verb): To establish or originate.
- founder (noun): A person who establishes an institution.
Collocations
- solid foundation
- lay the foundation
- concrete foundation
- shaky foundation
Idioms & expressions
- rock-solid foundation
Example sentences
- "The skyscraper's foundation goes deep into the bedrock to ensure stability." Construction
- "Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship." Philosophy
Memory hook
The foundation is found at the bottom. The bottom support.
When not to use
Don't use for the roof or upper floors.
Fun facts
- The Leaning Tower of Pisa leans because its foundation was built on soft ground that couldn't support the weight.
Related words
Explore more words
foundational, substrate, load-bearing, chassis, infrastructure, masonry
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