1. to be the basis or foundation for something; to form the underlying cause or reason
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘underlie’
2. to be situated or placed beneath something
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘underlie’

Examples

• A strong work ethic underlies her success in business.
• Fear of failure often underlies procrastination.
• Solid rock underlies the sandy soil in this area.
• The principle of equality underlies our legal system.
• A layer of clay underlies the garden bed.
• Economic inequality underlies many social problems.
• Bedrock underlies the entire valley floor.