adjective
underlying
adjective
1
Situated beneath or below something else.
"A layer of clay lies underlying the topsoil."
2
Forming the basic cause or foundation of something, even if not immediately obvious.
"The underlying reason for the delay was a shortage of parts."
"Doctors looked for an underlying condition that might explain her symptoms."
noun
1
In finance, the asset (such as a stock, commodity, or index) whose value determines the price of a derivative contract.
"If the underlying rises sharply, the option becomes far more valuable."
How to Use Underlying
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething basic or hidden beneath the surface that explains or supports what you can actually see.
Common pairings
underlying cause
underlying condition
underlying issue
underlying asset
Word Forms
underlyings plural
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A layer of clay lies _____ the topsoil.
Etymology
Formed from underlie plus the ending -ing.