underlying Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. verb be or form the base for
   underlie.
   
2. verb lie underneath
   underlie.
   
3. adjective satellite in the nature of something though not readily apparent
   inherent; implicit in.
   
   • shortcomings inherent in our approach
   • an underlying meaning
4. adjective satellite located beneath or below
   
5. adjective satellite being or involving basic facts or principles
   rudimentary; fundamental.
   
   • the fundamental laws of the universe
   • a fundamental incomatibility between them
   • these rudimentary truths
   • underlying principles

WordNet