VocabDictionary

foundations

/faʊnˈdeɪ.ʃənz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically constructed of concrete or stone, that supports the structure above.

Example Sentences:
  • The heavy rains caused the house's foundations to shift slightly.
  • Engineers spent months reinforcing the foundations before beginning the skyscraper's frame.
2.noun

The underlying principles, ideas, or base upon which an institution, theory, or organization is established.

Example Sentences:
  • Trust and honesty are the foundations of a healthy relationship.
  • The new law aims to strengthen the foundations of our democratic society.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “foundations”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'fondacion', which traces back to the Latin 'fundatio', from 'fundare' (to found or establish), ultimately rooted in the Proto-Indo-European '*bʰudʰ-' (bottom or base).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'found' object at the very bottom of a box; it is the base or foundation of everything else inside.

Frequently Asked Questions About “foundations

1. What is the meaning of “foundations” in English?

In English, foundations (noun) is defined as: “The lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically constructed of concrete or stone, that supports the structure above.”.

2. How do you use “foundations” in a sentence?

The heavy rains caused the house's foundations to shift slightly.

3. What are English synonyms of “foundations”?

Common synonyms include:bases,underpinnings,groundwork,fundamentals

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “foundations”?

Derived from the Old French 'fondacion', which traces back to the Latin 'fundatio', from 'fundare' (to found or establish), ultimately rooted in the Proto-Indo-European '*bʰudʰ-' (bottom or base).