underlying

[uhn-der-lahy-ing] / ˈʌn dərˌlaɪ ɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

fundamental, latent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

basic elemental hidden

STRONG

bottom concealed lurking prime root veiled

WEAK

basal bottom-line cardinal critical crucial elementary essential indispensable intrinsic necessary needful nitty-gritty nub primary primitive radical substratal vital

Antonyms

WEAK

secondary

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.

In young people, the underlying cause can either be genetic or acquired in some way - after an infection or an allergic reaction to medication, for example.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

The derivatives typically give investors leveraged long or short exposure to an underlying asset.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

At this thickness, the metal undergoes a transition from a strained state caused by the underlying material to a more relaxed atomic arrangement.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

That narrative was always more wishcasting than the underlying electoral reality suggested.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

There was something so defeated, so bitter, underlying the captain’s words that Dorian, for a heartbeat, felt badly.

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas

Vocabulary lists containing underlying

Outcasts United

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

High Spirits

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Most Dangerous

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!