1 foundations [pl] a layer of bricks, etc under the surface of the ground that forms the solid base of a building （建筑物的）地基

2 [C,U] the idea, principle, or fact on which sth is based 作为基础的思想、原则或事实；基础: This coursebook aims to give students a solid foundation in grammar. 这本教科书旨在帮助学生奠定牢固的语法基础。That rumour is completely without foundation (= it is not true). 那谣言完全没有根据。

3 [C] an organization that provides money for a special purpose 基金（会）: The British Heart Foundation 英国心脏基金

4 [U] the act of starting a new institution or organization 兴建；创建；创立