underlay

Other forms: underlaid; underlaying; underlays

To underlay a thing is to give it a foundation or support by putting something sturdy under it. Underlay also means to be underneath.

Something that underlays something else provides a base for that thing, whether it's the foundation of a building, the paper backing of a decal, or the fundamental ideas of a theory. As a noun, underlay refers to the padding that's laid out under carpet and other kinds of flooring.

Definitions of underlay

1. verb

   put (something) under or beneath
   “They underlaid the shingles with roofing paper”

   type of:

   lay, place, pose, position, put, set

   put into a certain place or abstract location
2. verb

   provide with a base, support, lining, or backing
   “underlay the boards with joists”

   type of:

   cater, ply, provide, supply

   give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance
3. verb

   raise or support (the level of printing) by inserting a piece of paper or cardboard under the type
   “underlay the plate”

   type of:

   bring up, elevate, get up, lift, raise

   raise from a lower to a higher position