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REFERENCE

founded

v. · adj.
US //ˈfaʊndɪd// UK //fˈaʊndɪd// found·ed
  1. 1 started an organisation (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    started a company, school, or city that is still around today.

    the past tense of 'found', meaning to establish or set up an institution, organisation, or settlement with provision for its future.

    Example

    The university was founded in 1850 by a group of local teachers.

    Example

    The tech giant was founded in a small garage, eventually growing into a global corporation that redefined modern communication.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice when discussing the history of institutions.
    Pitfall
    He founded his keys under the sofa.
    He found his keys under the sofa.

    Do not confuse 'founded' (started an organisation) with 'found' (the past of 'find').

  2. 2 based on facts (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    having a good reason or a solid base of facts.

    having a specified basis or foundation; frequently used in the negative 'unfounded' or with adverbs like 'well-founded'.

    Example

    Her fears were well-founded because the storm was getting much worse.

    Example

    The committee concluded that the allegations were well-founded, supported by a significant volume of internal documentation and witness testimony.

    Usage

    Commonly appears in the compound 'well-founded' to indicate a logical or factual basis.

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