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Undergird is a verb that means to provide support or strength to something, usually a concept, belief, or argument. It refers to the act of reinforcing or bolstering the foundations or essential components of a thing or situation.
When used metaphorically, undergird implies the idea of strengthening or consolidating a structure or system to ensure its stability and resilience. It suggests establishing a solid base that can sustain and endure challenges or pressures. For example, in the context of an academic paper, one might use evidence and logical reasoning to undergird an argument, ensuring it is well-supported and persuasive.
Undergird can also connote the idea of providing a pervasive influence or presence throughout a particular subject or situation. This can be seen when a principle or value undergirds the actions or decisions of an individual or a whole society. It establishes a moral or philosophical foundation that guides behaviors or policies.
In summary, undergird refers to the act of reinforcing, strengthening, or providing foundational support to an idea, concept, belief, structure, or argument. The term implies establishing a solid base, whether by providing evidence, logic, or moral grounding, in order to ensure stability and resilience.
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To bind below; to gird round the bottom.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "undergird" is derived from the combination of two Old English words: "under" and "girdan".
The word "under" comes from the Old English word "under", which meant "beneath" or "below". This root word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "under", which had the same meaning.
The second part of the word, "girdan", comes from the Old English verb "gyrdan", which means "to encircle" or "to surround". This root word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "gurdaną", which had a similar meaning.
By combining these two words, "undergird" was formed, which essentially means "to secure or support from below" or "to strengthen or reinforce".
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CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
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FUTURE
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FUTURE CONTINUOUS
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FUTURE PERFECT
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IMPERATIVE
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PAST CONTINUOUS
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PAST PARTICIPLE
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PRESENT
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PRESENT CONTINUOUS
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PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
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SIMPLE PAST
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