1foundations [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