underlying Meaning & Definition
What Does Underlying Mean?
Underlying is an adjective that means Lying underneath. It is also used to mean Basic or fundamental. As a noun, it means The entity from whose performance a derivative derives its value. As a verb, it means present participle and gerund of underlie.
Quick Facts About Underlying
| Part of speech | adjective, noun, verb |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | fundamental, implicit and rudimentary |
| Plural | underlyings |
Underlying Definition (Adjective)
- Lying underneath.
We dug down to the underlying rock.
- Basic or fundamental.
Points and straight lines are underlying elements of geometry.
- Implicit.
Many nursery rhymes have an underlying meaning.
Underlying as a Noun
- The entity from whose performance a derivative derives its value.
Underlying as a Verb
- present participle and gerund of underlie
Verb
- To lie in a position directly beneath.
- To lie under or beneath.
A stratum of clay underlies the surface gravel.
- To serve as a basis of; form the foundation of.
a doctrine underlying a theory
- To be subject to; be liable to answer, as a charge or challenge.
- To underlay.
Synonyms of Underlying
Underlying synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Underlying
No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.
Underlying in a Sentence
We dug down to the underlying rock.
Points and straight lines are underlying elements of geometry.
Many nursery rhymes have an underlying meaning.
A stratum of clay underlies the surface gravel.
a doctrine underlying a theory
Word Forms & Grammar
underlying (not comparable)
underlying (plural underlyings)
underlying
Words That Rhyme With Underlying
Origin of Underlying
By surface analysis, underlie + -ing.
Common Questions About Underlying
Is underlying an adjective or a noun?
Underlying is mainly used as an adjective, but it can also be used as a noun and a verb.
What is another word for underlying?
Words with a similar meaning to underlying include fundamental, implicit and rudimentary. See the full list of underlying synonyms and antonyms.
What is the plural of underlying?
The plural of underlying is underlyings.