In construction, a foundation is the element of a structure that connects it to the ground, transferring loads from the structure to the ground. Foundations are generally considered either shallow or deep, and foundation engineering is the application of soil mechanics and rock mechanics in the design of foundation elements of structures. The purpose of a foundation is to provide the structures stability from the ground, distribute the weight of the structure over a large area to avoid overloading the underlying soil, anchor the structure against natural forces, provide a level surface for construction, anchor the structure deeply into the ground, and prevent lateral movements of the supported structure.
It is important to note that "foundation" is not a legal term, and if an organization has the word in its name, it does not necessarily make grants. Broadly speaking, a foundation is a nonprofit corporation or a charitable trust that makes grants to organizations, institutions, or individuals for charitable purposes such as science, education, culture, and religion. There are two types of foundations: private foundations and grantmaking public charities. Private foundations get their money from a family, an individual, or a corporation and must meet a "payout requirement," meaning they have to give away a certain amount of their assets every year. Grantmaking public charities get their money from many different sources.
In addition, "foundation" can also refer to a woman's supporting undergarment, a cosmetic usually used as a base for makeup, or the whole masonry substructure of a building.
