Definition

To be the basis or support for something; to be located beneath or underneath.

Example

The principles of fairness and justice underlie our legal system.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I've been thinking about what might underlie her sudden change in behavior.

Yeah, it really makes you wonder what’s going on with her.

I feel like there must be something deeper that we're not seeing.

Definitely, sometimes things underlie situations that we just can't understand right away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underlie → It is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath) and "lie" (from Old English "licgan", meaning to rest or be situated). The word "underlie" means to be situated beneath something or to serve as a foundation for it.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beneath' ('under-') and 'resting' ('lie') — that's why underlie means to be situated underneath or to form a basis.

Visually Confused Words