footing
n.-
1 physical balance (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe ability to stand or move without falling on a difficult surface.
the state of having a stable or secure position for the feet; physical balance on a surface.
ExampleHe lost his footing on the icy path and nearly fell into the bushes.
ExampleThe climbers struggled to maintain their footing as the loose shale shifted beneath their boots with every upward step.
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2 basis of a relationship (n.) C1 Advanced Formalthe position or status you have when dealing with other people.
the basis or foundation on which a relationship, organisation, or process exists.
ExampleThe two companies are now on an equal footing after the new contract.
ExampleThe peace treaty was designed to put the neighbouring nations on a more secure diplomatic footing after decades of border disputes.
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3 structural foundation (n.) C2 Proficiency Technical Engineeringthe wide part at the bottom of a wall that supports a building.
the widened base of a foundation wall or column, designed to distribute the structural load over a larger area of soil.
ExampleThe builders poured concrete into the trenches to create a solid footing for the house.
ExampleThe structural engineer insisted on deeper footings to account for the high clay content and potential for soil expansion during the rainy season.
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4 accounting total (n.) C2 Proficiency Technical Accountingthe act of adding up a column of numbers to find the total.
the process of summing a column of figures in an account or ledger.
ExampleShe checked the footing of the sales column to ensure the books balanced.
ExampleAn error in the initial footing of the balance sheet led to a significant discrepancy that was only discovered during the final audit.
From Middle English fotyng; equivalent to foot + -ing.