underlie
UK: ˌʌndəˈlaɪ | US: ˌʌndərˈlaɪ
vt. to form the basis or foundation of something
vt. to lie or be situated under something
underlie = under<below> + lie<rest horizontally>
- under (from Old English under, meaning "beneath, below")
- lie (from Old English licgan, meaning "to rest horizontally")
Etymology Origin:
The word underlie combines under (indicating position beneath) and lie (to rest flat). It originated in Old English as a compound verb, retaining its literal sense of "to lie beneath" while later developing the figurative meaning of "forming the basis of." The logic is straightforward: just as a physical layer supports what is above it, an abstract foundation (underlying principle) supports ideas or systems.
Solid evidence must underlie any scientific theory.
The ancient ruins underlie the modern city.
Economic factors often underlie political decisions.
A layer of clay underlies the topsoil here.
Her calm demeanor underlies a fierce determination.