FOUNDA'TION, n. L. fundatio, fundo.
1. The basis of an edifice that part of a building which lies on the ground usually a wall of stone which supports the edifice.
2. The act of fixing the basis.
3. The basis or ground work, or any thing that on which any thing stands, and by which it is supported. A free government has its foundation in the choice and consent of the people to be governed. Christ is the foundation of the church.
Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation, a stone - a precious cornerstone. Isaiah 28 .
Other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3 .
4. Original rise as the foundation of the world.
5. Endowment a donation or legacy appropriated to support an institution, and constituting a permanent fund, usually for a charitable purpose.
6. Establishment settlement.