2. That upon which anything is founded; that on which
anything stands, and by which it is supported; the lowest
and supporting layer of a superstructure; groundwork;
basis.
Behold, I lay in Zion, for a foundation, a stone . .
. a precious corner stone, a sure foundation. --Is.
xxviii. 16.
The foundation of a free common wealth. --Motley.
3. (Arch.) The lowest and supporting part or member of a
wall, including the base course (see {Base course}
(a), under {Base}, n.) and footing courses; in a frame
house, the whole substructure of masonry.
4. 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.
5. That which is founded, or established by endowment; an
endowed institution or charity.
Against the canon laws of our foundation. --Milton.
{Foundation course}. See {Base course}, under {Base}, n.
{Foundation muslin}, an open-worked gummed fabric used for
stiffening dresses, bonnets, etc.
{Foundation school}, in England, an endowed school.
{To be on a foundation}, to be entitled to a support from the
proceeds of an endowment, as a scholar or a fellow of a
college.