Underlying meaning

What does “underlying” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“underlying” is an adjective with 3 meanings. Its most common meaning is: in the nature of something though not readily apparent.

underlying

in the nature of something though not readily apparent
“shortcomings inherent in our approach”
“an underlying meaning”
Synonymsimplicit in inherent
located beneath or below
being or involving basic facts or principles
“the fundamental laws of the universe”
“a fundamental incompatibility between them”
Synonymsfundamental rudimentary

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University