substructuraladj.
/ˌsʌbˈstrʌktʃ(ə)rəl/, /ˌsʌbˈstrʌktʃ(ə)rl̩/, U.S. /ˌsəbˈstrək(t)ʃ(ə)rəl/ Forming, relating to, or of the nature of a substructure; (figurative, esp. in early use) fundamental, underlying.
ΘΚΠ
the world > space > relative position > low position > [adjective] > relating to or forming a base
bottom1561
fundamental1581
basal1828
basial1836
substructural1837
1837 J. Connell Regimental Coventry I. 329 This [sc. the testimony of a Sergeant] would appear to be a sort of substructural basis to the statement, that so creditably and indignantly came from the honest Errington.
1840 Trans. Entomol. Soc. London 2 208 The insect first forms the lid and neck of the nest, and then continues its substructural works.
1866 Pall Mall Gaz. 12 May 12 A narrative of long public services, mostly underground and substructural.
1884 Homilet. Monthly Sept. 684 These are the substructural truths of revelation.
1908 M. H. Lewis Waterproofing 216 (heading) Design of substructural waterproofing.
1972 H. Kurath Stud. Area Linguistics xi. 183 The differences between the dialects..must be identified as structural and substructural.
2004 Red Rock (Sedona, Arizona) News 10 Mar. 6 b/2 Keep all substructural wood at least 12 inches above the soil beneath the building.
This entry has been updated (OED Third Edition, June 2012; most recently modified version published online March 2022).
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adj.1837