faʊnˈdeɪʃn
faʊnˈdeɪʃn
1 [countable, usually plural] a layer of bricks, concrete, etc. that forms the solid underground base of a buildingThe builders are now beginning to lay the foundations of the new school.The explosion shook the foundations of the houses nearby.2 [countable, uncountable] a principle, an idea or a fact that something is based on and that it grows fromRespect and friendship provide a solid foundation for marriage.The rumour is totally without foundation (= not based on any facts).These stories have no foundation (= are not based on any facts).3 [countable] an organization that is established to provide money for a particular purpose, for example for scientific research or charityThe money will go to the San Francisco AIDS Foundation.4 [uncountable] the act of starting a new institution or organizationSynonym
establishmentThe organization has grown enormously since its foundation in 1955.She used the money to go towards the foundation of a special research group.5 [uncountable] a skin-coloured cream that is put on the face underneath other make-upIdioms
shake/rock the foundations of something
|shake/rock something to its foundations
to cause people to question their basic beliefs about something
This issue has shaken the foundations of French politics.
Usage note: basisfoundation baseThese are all words for the ideas or facts that something is based on.basis [usually sing.] a principle, an idea or a fact that supports something and that it can develop from: This article will form the basis for our discussion.foundation [C, U] a principle, an idea or a fact that supports something and that it develops from: Respect and friendship provide a solid foundation for marriage. ◇ The rumour is totally without foundation (= is not based on any facts).basis or foundation?Foundation is often used to talk about larger or more important things than basis: He laid the foundations of Japan 's modern economy. ◇ These figures formed the basis of their pay claim.base [usually sing.] an idea, a fact or a situation from which something is developed: His arguments have a sound economic base.a/the basis/foundation/base for/of somethinga secure/solid/sound/strong/weak basis/foundation/baseto form the basis/foundation/base of somethingto be without basis/foundationUsage note: bottombase foundation footThese are all words for the lowest part of something.bottom [usually sing.] the lowest part of something: Footnotes are given at the bottom of each page. ◇ I waited for them at the bottom of the hill.base [usually sing.] the lowest part of something, especially the part or surface on which it rests or stands: The lamp has a heavy base.foundation [usually pl.] a layer of bricks, concrete, etc. that forms the solid underground base of a building: to lay the foundations of the new schoolfoot [sing.] the lowest part of something: At the foot of the stairs she turned to face him.bottom or foot?Foot is used to talk about a limited number of things: it is used most often with tree, hill/mountain, steps/stairs and page. Bottom can be used to talk about a much wider range of things, including those mentioned above for foot. Foot is generally used in more literary contexts.at/near/towards the bottom/base/foot of somethingon the bottom/base of something(a) firm/solid/strong base/foundation(s)