underlie
verb
un·der·lie ˌən-dər-ˈlī 
underlay ˌən-dər-ˈlā ; underlain ˌən-dər-ˈlān ; underlying ˌən-dər-ˈlī-iŋ
; underlain ˌən-dər-ˈlān ; underlying ˌən-dər-ˈlī-iŋ
Examples of underlie in a Sentence
A tile floor underlies the rug. The river is underlain by limestone. We discussed the principles that underlay their methods. A theme of revenge underlies much of her writing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Without the structure of constant checkups and immediate attention to injuries, some former players may delay seeing providers — allowing underlying health issues to go unaddressed for years. —
Roni Robbins, AJC.com, 21 Apr. 2026 There was an underlying tone of contrition. —Armando Salguero, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2026 But alongside that commitment is an underlying uncertainty — if something goes wrong, will they be treated fairly? —Rep. Nick Menapace, Hartford Courant, 21 Apr. 2026 The underlying problems, meanwhile, remain unsolved. —Nataliya Gumenyuk, The Dial, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underlie
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Roni Robbins, AJC.com, 21 Apr. 2026 There was an underlying tone of contrition. —Armando Salguero, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2026 But alongside that commitment is an underlying uncertainty — if something goes wrong, will they be treated fairly? —Rep. Nick Menapace, Hartford Courant, 21 Apr. 2026 The underlying problems, meanwhile, remain unsolved. —Nataliya Gumenyuk, The Dial, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underlie
Cite this Entry
“Underlie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/underlie. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
underlie
verb
un·der·lie ˌən-dər-ˈlī
1
: to lie or be located under
2
: to form the foundation of : support
ideas underlying the revolt
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