Foundation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the underlying support or base upon which something is built. It can be a physical structure, a principle, or an idea.

• The foundation of the house was built to withstand earthquakes.
• Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship.

Often refers to the lowest part or layer of something, or a main place from which operations are carried out. It can also mean the main ingredient in something, such as a recipe or formula.

• The base of the statue was made of marble.
• Their base of operations is located in the city center.

Typically refers to the secure placement of the feet when standing or walking. In construction, it can mean a solid support at the base of a building. It could also mean achieving a stable condition or position in a situation.

• The hikers struggled to find their footing on the slippery path.
• The company regained its financial footing after the crisis.

Refers to the initial work or preparations needed to lay the foundation for a project, idea, or structure. It often implies detailed, essential tasks that are necessary before the main work can proceed.

• The researchers did extensive groundwork before starting the experiment.
• Months of groundwork were needed to prepare the new policy.

Refers to an organization established to fund and support various causes such as education, health, research, and social services. It can also mean the underlying basis or groundwork of something.

• The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has contributed significantly to global health initiatives.
• The new policy changes are built on a strong foundation of previous research.

Describes organizations aimed at helping those in need, often through donations and volunteer work. It carries a positive connotation of altruism and compassion.

• She donates a portion of her salary to charity every month.
• The event is organized to raise funds for local charities.

Commonly refers to a financial arrangement where assets are held and managed by one party for the benefit of another. Can also mean a fiduciary relationship.

• The inheritance is managed through a family trust.
• She established a trust fund to ensure her children's financial security.

Typically refers to a financial investment made to provide ongoing support for an institution, often in the form of scholarships, research grants, or operational funds.

• The university's endowment is used to fund scholarships for underprivileged students.
• Thanks to a generous endowment, the museum can continue its cultural outreach programs.

Used to describe the underlying support or basis for something, often in abstract or structural contexts.

• Education is the foundation of a successful life.
• The foundation of the building must be strong to support the structure.

Often used to denote the bottom part of something or the main ingredient in a mixture. Also used in a military context to describe a location where troops are stationed.

• The lamp sits on a sturdy base.
• Oil is usually the base for most salad dressings.
• The soldiers returned to base after the mission.

Primarily used in the context of cosmetics applied to the face. Can also mean the composition or structure of something.

• She applied makeup before going to the party.
• The makeup of the committee includes members from different departments.

Used in the context of preparing a surface for painting or as a preliminary textbook covering basic principles or techniques.

• He applied a coat of primer to the wall before painting.
• A photography primer can help beginners understand the basics.