Foundation Meaning

UK /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
US /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
Word Definition
foundation meaning

Foundation Definition & Usage

noun

The base or underlying structure that supports something, typically a building or other large structure.

Examples

  • "The foundation of the house was laid last week."
  • "The skyscraper’s foundation is made of reinforced concrete."
  • "A solid foundation is essential for any large construction project."
  • "The engineers examined the foundation before approving the design."
  • "Without a stable foundation, the entire building could collapse."
noun

The underlying basis or principle of something, especially an idea, theory, or organization.

Examples

  • "Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship."
  • "The foundation of modern science lies in experimentation and observation."
  • "Their campaign was built on a foundation of honesty and transparency."
  • "The foundation of our democracy is the right to free speech."
  • "Education is the foundation of a prosperous society."
noun

An organization established to provide financial support for charitable purposes.

Examples

  • "The foundation donated millions to environmental causes."
  • "She works for a foundation that helps provide clean water in developing countries."
  • "The university’s foundation is responsible for raising funds for scholarships."
  • "The local foundation organizes events to support community health initiatives."
  • "A new foundation has been set up to preserve endangered wildlife."
noun

A cosmetic product applied to the skin to create an even, uniform complexion.

Examples

  • "She applied a light foundation before starting her makeup routine."
  • "The foundation she uses gives great coverage without feeling heavy."
  • "Do you prefer liquid or powder foundation?"
  • "After applying foundation, she added a touch of blush to her cheeks."
  • "For a natural look, choose a foundation that matches your skin tone."

Cultural Context

The term 'foundation' has roots in both construction and philosophical thought. In construction, the foundation is the literal base upon which structures are built, symbolizing stability and strength. In more abstract contexts, the foundation refers to the core principles or ideas that underlie a system, theory, or organization. The word also carries significance in the charitable sector, representing organizations that support various causes. Additionally, in modern beauty culture, foundation has become a staple product in makeup routines, reflecting its role in creating a smooth and uniform appearance.

The Building Blocks of Tomorrow

Story

The Building Blocks of Tomorrow

Anna had always dreamed of creating a community center that could serve as a foundation for youth development. She believed that a strong, supportive space could give the kids in her neighborhood a better future. After years of hard work, the project finally came to life, but she knew it all started with a solid foundation. As the construction workers laid the first layer of concrete, Anna reflected on how her team’s dedication mirrored the construction process itself. Every decision, every investment, was part of the foundation that would hold the entire center together. She often told her volunteers that a strong community, much like a strong building, needed a foundation built on trust and respect. Her words weren’t just about the physical structure; they were about the values they were instilling. Each class, each mentoring session, was a brick in the metaphorical foundation of the center. ‘This is our foundation,’ she’d say as they worked, ‘and from here, we’ll build something even bigger.’ As time went on, the foundation of Anna’s vision expanded. She collaborated with a local foundation that helped secure funding for the center, ensuring it would continue to serve the community for years to come. The relationship with the foundation was crucial, just as crucial as the physical foundation that held the center upright. But Anna’s foundation wasn’t just structural or financial—it was built on relationships, on shared values, on a commitment to making the future better for the next generation. Years later, when the center was a thriving hub of activity, Anna would often pause and look at the building, reflecting on how far they had come. She knew that the center’s success was rooted in its foundation, not just the one under the ground, but the one that had been created by a community coming together, united by a common purpose. In her heart, she always believed that the foundation of any great project, whether it’s a building or a cause, starts with a vision and a willingness to build it from the ground up.

The Building Blocks of Tomorrow