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foundation

n.
US //faʊnˈdeɪʃən// UK //faʊndˈeɪʃən// foun·da·tion
  1. 1 building base (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Architecture

    the strong part of a building that is under the ground and supports the weight of the walls.

    the lowest and supporting layer of a superstructure, typically made of concrete and situated below ground level.

    Example

    The workers poured concrete into the trench to create a strong foundation for the new house.

    Example

    Engineers discovered that the original foundation had shifted over the decades, necessitating expensive structural reinforcement before the renovation could proceed.

    Usage

    Often used in the plural ('foundations') when referring to the physical base of a large building.
  2. 2 basis of an idea (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    a basic idea, principle, or fact that something else is based on.

    the fundamental principle, theory, or data upon which a system of thought or an argument is established.

    Example

    Respect and honesty are the foundation of a healthy relationship.

    Example

    The researcher argued that the current economic model lacks a solid empirical foundation, leading to frequent and unpredictable market failures.
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  1. 3 charitable organization (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    an organization that is started with a large amount of money to help people or do research.

    an endowed institution or charity established to provide funding or support for specific social, educational, or scientific purposes.

    Example

    The foundation provides scholarships for students who want to study medicine.

    Example

    The private foundation announced a multi-million dollar grant aimed at eradicating tropical diseases in sub-Saharan Africa.
  2. 4 makeup (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a type of cream or powder put on the face to make the skin look smooth and even.

    a skin-coloured cosmetic applied to the face to create an even, uniform colour and to cover flaws.

    Example

    She applied a light layer of foundation before putting on her eye makeup.

    Example

    The makeup artist selected a liquid foundation with yellow undertones to match the model's natural skin tone under the studio lights.
  3. 5 the act of starting (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of starting a new organization or system.

    the formal act of establishing or beginning an institution, society, or system.

    Example

    The city celebrated the 500th anniversary of the foundation of the university.

    Example

    Since its foundation in 1945, the international body has struggled to balance the competing interests of its most powerful member states.
Origin

From Middle English foundacioun, fundacioun, from Old French fondacion, from Latin fundātiō (“founding, foundation”).

Word family

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