underlying

US /ˈʌndɚˌlaɪɪŋ/

UK /ˌʌndəˈlaɪɪŋ/

B1

verb

  • Being the basis, foundation or cause of something
  • To lie or exist beneath
  • Present participle of underlie: to lie or be situated under.

adjective

  • Being the cause or basis of something.
  • Present but not obvious; implicit.