underlying meaning and definition

UNDERLYING adjective

Definition of underlying (adjective)

1. in the nature of something though not readily apparent
   • "shortcomings inherent in our approach"; "an underlying meaning"
   • synonyms: implicit in, inherent
2. located beneath or below
3. being or involving basic facts or principles
   • "the fundamental laws of the universe"; "a fundamental incomatibility between them"; "these rudimentary truths"; "underlying principles"
   • synonyms: fundamental, rudimentary