Foundation

Definition

The foundation refers to the lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically below ground level or the underlying basis or principle for something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
• Respelling: fown-DAY-shun (with "fown" as in "found," "DAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "cushion")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
• Respelling: fown-DAY-shun (with "fown" as in "found," "DAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "cushion")

In both dialects, "foundation" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "DAY." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "fown-DAY-shun."

Etymology

The word "foundation" originates from the Latin "fundatio," meaning "a founding," derived from "fundare," meaning "to lay the base of," and "fundus," meaning "bottom" or "base." The term entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, initially referring to the act of establishing something, and later extending to the base or support of structures and organizations.

Derivatives

• Found (verb)
• Founder (noun)
• Foundational (adjective)
• Foundationally (adverb)
• Foundationless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Base
• Underpinning
• Bedrock

Antonyms

• Superstructure
• Top
• Surface

Usage

The term "foundation" is widely used in various contexts. In construction, it refers to the base that supports a building or structure. In a metaphorical sense, it can describe the underlying principles or ideas that form the basis of something. Additionally, "foundation" can refer to a non-profit organization established for charitable, educational, or research purposes.

Related Terms

• Groundwork
• Pillar
• Cornerstone
• Infrastructure
• Substructure

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Base or Groundwork of a Structure: Refers to the underlying support or base upon which a building or structure is erected.
  • Example: The house's foundation was made of reinforced concrete to ensure stability.

• The Underlying Basis or Principle: Used metaphorically to describe the core principles or ideas that support a theory, system, or belief.
  • Example: The principles of freedom and equality are the foundation of the democratic system.

• An Institution Established for a Specific Purpose: Refers to a non-profit organization, often created with an endowment, dedicated to charitable, educational, or research activities.
  • Example: The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation focuses on global health and education initiatives.

• An Endowment for a Specific Purpose: Describes the financial resources set aside to support a specific goal or cause, often managed by a foundation.
  • Example: The foundation was set up to provide scholarships for underprivileged students.