1. past tense and past participle of underpin: to support or strengthen from below with a foundation
Usage: construction; engineering
2. past tense and past participle of underpin: to form the basis for or provide fundamental support to something
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• The old building was underpinned with steel beams to prevent collapse.
• Workers underpinned the foundation before adding the new wing.
• Her argument was underpinned by solid research and data.
• The theory is underpinned by decades of scientific observation.
• Strong family values underpinned their approach to education.
• The company’s success was underpinned by excellent customer service.
• Historical evidence underpinned the archaeologist’s conclusions.