Foun-dā'tion, n.
n. [Fr. fondation, Pr. fundacio, fondation, Sp. fundacion, It. fondazione, Lat. fundatio. See FOUND.]
Sense 1. The act of founding, fixing, establishing, or beginning to erect.
Sense 2. That upon which any thing is founded; that on which any thing stands, and by which it is supported; the lowest and supporting layer of a superstructure; groundwork; basis. “The foundation of a free commonwealth.” Motley.
Behold, I lay in Zion, for a foundation, a stone . . . a precious corner-stone, a sure foundation. Is. xxviii. 16.
The frame and huge foundation of the earth Shook like a coward. Shak.
Sense 3. A donation or legacy appropriated to support a charitable institution, and constituting a permanent fund; endowment.
He was entered on the foundation of Westminster. Macaulay.
Sense 4. That which is founded, or established by endowment; an endowed institution or charity.
Against the canon laws of our foundation. Milton.