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foundation

[foun-dey-shuhn] / faʊnˈdeɪ ʃən /
NOUN
basis for something physical or mental
Synonyms
STRONGEST
authority base bedrock groundwork infrastructure support
STRONG
ABCs basics bed bottom foot footing ground guts heart justification nitty-gritty nub prop reason root setup stay substratum substructure understructure
WEAK
bottom line brass tacks nuts and bolts underpinning
Antonyms
STRONG
cowardice exterior exteriority fear outside top
NOUN
established institution
Synonyms
STRONGEST
association charity company corporation endowment establishment institute organization society
STRONG
guild inauguration plantation settlement trusteeship

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Detection is the foundation: radar, radio-frequency sensing, acoustic systems and electro-optical cameras that establish airspace awareness before a threat materializes.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

These were some of the movers and shakers of Black foundation, of Black American society.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

Now that Apple has the foundation of a strong social-media presence branded toward a younger audience, and a successful Neo introduction, more launches are likely.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

"The club definitely plays a socio-economic role," Parrot continues, notably pointing to the local donations it makes through its foundation.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Half a dozen snails were oozing up the cinder-block foundation of their house, getting as high as they could.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz

Vocabulary lists containing foundation

Giving Words

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The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 6

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 1

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