underlie
Pronunciation:
/ˌʌn.də(ɹ)ˈlaɪ/verb
Definitions
To lie in a position directly beneath.
To lie under or beneath.
Example: A stratum of clay underlies the surface gravel.
To serve as a basis of; form the foundation of.
Example: a doctrine underlying a theory
To be subject to; be liable to answer, as a charge or challenge.