- to prop up or support from below; strengthen, as by reinforcing a foundation.
- to replace or strengthen the foundation of (a building or the like).
- to furnish a foundation for; corroborate: The author's conclusions are underpinned by references to experimental findings.
- to support from beneath, esp by a prop, while avoiding damaging or weakening the superstructure
- to give corroboration, strength, or support to
