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
Changing who oversees a cartel doesn’t change the underlying dynamics present in illicit markets.
—
Abigail R. Hall, Oc Register, 30 Mar. 2026
Right now in America, when our discourse has gotten so crass and mean-spirited that to show the underlying kindness of this show is really resonating.
—Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 30 Mar. 2026
Goh is careful to remind patients that shaving their head will not make their hair grow back better— a common myth — and that depending on the underlying condition, regrowth may not happen the way someone hopes.
—Lily Hautau, CNN Money, 30 Mar. 2026
Despite the team’s struggles, the underlying metrics and flashes on tape showed a quarterback capable of stressing defenses in multiple ways.
—Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for underlie
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Abigail R. Hall, Oc Register, 30 Mar. 2026
Right now in America, when our discourse has gotten so crass and mean-spirited that to show the underlying kindness of this show is really resonating.
—Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 30 Mar. 2026
Goh is careful to remind patients that shaving their head will not make their hair grow back better— a common myth — and that depending on the underlying condition, regrowth may not happen the way someone hopes.
—Lily Hautau, CNN Money, 30 Mar. 2026
Despite the team’s struggles, the underlying metrics and flashes on tape showed a quarterback capable of stressing defenses in multiple ways.
—Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for underlie
Cite this Entry
“Underlie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underlie. Accessed 5 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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