foundation
foun·da·tion / founˈdāshən/ • n. 1. (often foundations) the lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically below ground level. ∎ fig. a body or ground on which other parts rest or are overlaid: he starts playing melody lines on the bass instead of laying the foundation down. ∎ (also foundation garment) a woman's supporting undergarment, such as a girdle. ∎ a cream or powder used as a base to even out facial skin tone before applying other cosmetics.2. an underlying basis or principle for something: specific learning skills as a foundation for other subjects. ∎ justification or reason: distorted and misleading accusations with no foundation.3. the action of establishing an institution or organization on a permanent basis, esp. with an endowment. ∎ an institution established with an endowment, for example a college or a body devoted to financing research or charity.DERIVATIVES: foun·da·tion·al / -shənl/ adj.