Meaning & use

foundation

noun·Academic

The solid base on which a structure is built, or the basic principles on which something is established.

See it in a sentence

Workers poured concrete for the foundation before building the walls.

Trust forms the foundation of any strong and lasting relationship.

A note on using this word

Foundation is used literally for buildings and figuratively for the basic principles underlying an idea, relationship, or organization.

Words with a similar meaning

basebasisgroundwork

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

An organization that provides funding for charitable, educational, or other purposes.

The foundation awarded grants to several local schools.

Make it your own

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