foundation

/faʊnˈdeɪʃən/noun

The solid base, usually below ground level, on which a building or other structure rests and is supported.

Example sentences

“Workers poured the concrete foundation for the new house.”
“Cracks in the foundation let water into the basement.”

'Without foundation' means without factual basis: the rumor was without foundation. A foundation is also a charity endowed to fund good works.

Synonyms for foundation

base
footing
groundwork
substructure

On the Academic Word List. Find it in: Academic vocabulary.

Related words

brickworkThe part of a building or other construction built from bricks.insulationMaterial fitted in a building to slow heat from escaping or entering.plasterA building material that goes on walls and ceilings as a wet paste and hardens into a smooth, solid layer; it is usually based on gypsum, lime, or cement.wiringThe network of electrical wires in a building or device.wallpaperA decorative paper-based covering pasted onto the interior walls of a building.plumbingThe network of pipes, taps, tanks, and related fittings that carry water, gas, or waste through a building.