foun·da·tion 
(foun-dāshən)
(foun-dāshən)n.
1. The act of founding, especially the establishment of an institution with provisions for future maintenance.
2. Architecture A wall or other structure, as of concrete or masonry, usually extending below ground level and forming the base upon which a building rests.
3. Something that gives rise to or supports something else. See Synonyms at base1.
4.
a. Funds for the perpetual support of an institution; an endowment.
b. An institution founded and supported by an endowment.
5. A cosmetic used as a base for facial makeup.
6. A supporting undergarment, such as a corset or girdle, designed to give the body a more desirable shape. Also called foundation garment.
[Middle English fundacioun, from Latin fundātiō, fundātiōn-, from fundātus, past participle of fundāre, to lay the groundwork for; see FOUND1.]
foun·dation·al adj.