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Foundation: meaning, definitions and examples

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foundation

 

[ faʊnˈdeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

building

A foundation is the lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically below ground level, that supports the structure above it.

Synonyms

base, footing, groundwork

Examples of usage

  • The foundation of the house was reinforced to withstand earthquakes.
  • The architect designed a strong foundation for the skyscraper.
Context #2 | Noun

organization

A foundation is an organization that provides funds or support for various projects or causes, such as education, research, or charity.

Synonyms

charity, endowment, trust

Examples of usage

  • The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation supports healthcare initiatives worldwide.
  • She received a grant from the foundation to start her own business.
Context #3 | Noun

makeup

Foundation is a cosmetic applied to the face to create an even skin tone and conceal blemishes.

Synonyms

base, makeup, primer

Examples of usage

  • She applied foundation before putting on her makeup.
  • The foundation matched her skin perfectly.

Translations

Translations of the word "foundation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fundação

🇮🇳 नींव

🇩🇪 Fundament

🇮🇩 dasar

🇺🇦 фундація

🇵🇱 fundacja

🇯🇵 基礎 (きそ)

🇫🇷 fondation

🇪🇸 fundación

🇹🇷 vakıf

🇰🇷 기초 (基礎)

🇸🇦 مؤسسة

🇨🇿 nadace

🇸🇰 nadácia

🇨🇳 基础 (jīchǔ)

🇸🇮 fundacija

🇮🇸 grunnur

🇰🇿 негіз

🇬🇪 ფონდი

🇦🇿 fond

🇲🇽 fundación

Etymology

The word 'foundation' originated from the Latin word 'fundare', meaning 'to lay a base for'. It has been used since the 14th century to refer to the base of a building. Over time, the term expanded to include the concept of an organization providing financial support. In the world of makeup, 'foundation' has been used since the early 20th century to describe a cosmetic product for the face.

See also: foundable, foundational, founded, founder, founders, foundling, profound, unfounded.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,173, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.