1. That which is laid or spread under; that which underlies something, as a layer of earth lying under another; specifically (Agric.), the subsoil.
2. (Metaph.)
Defn: The permanent subject of qualities or cause of phenomena; substance.
SUBSTRUCT
Sub*struct", v. t. Etym: [See Substruction.]
Defn: To build beneath something; to lay as the foundation. [R.]
He substructs the religion of Asia as the base. Emerson.
SUBSTRUCTION Sub*struc"tion, n. Etym: [L. substructio, fr. substruere, substructum, to build beneath; sub under + struere to build.] (Arch.)
Defn: Underbuilding; the foundation, or any preliminary structure intended to raise the lower floor or basement of a building above the natural level of the ground. It is a magnificent strong building, with a substruction very remarkable. Evelyn.
SUBSTRUCTURE
Sub*struc"ture, n. Etym: [Pref. sub- + structure.]
1. (Arch.)
Defn: Same as Substruction.