A foundation is the solid base that supports a building, or the basic idea or structure that supports something like a system or belief. It can also mean an organization that gives money to help causes.
From Latin “fundatio” meaning “a founding or laying of a base,” from “fundare” (to lay a bottom or base). It moved from literal building language to more abstract uses over time.
The strength of anything—house, argument, or habit—depends on its foundation, even though you rarely see it. That’s why beginners in any skill spend so much time on ‘boring basics’; they’re quietly pouring the concrete.
In architecture and institutions, “foundation” is neutral, but in cosmetics it has been marketed primarily to women, reinforcing norms that women’s faces require coverage or correction. Beauty-industry language around foundation has often tied women’s value to appearance and conformity to specific beauty standards.
When referring to makeup, avoid assuming only women use or care about foundation; specify “cosmetic foundation” and avoid linking its use to professional or social acceptability.
["base makeup","cosmetic foundation"]
Women chemists, entrepreneurs, and makeup artists have innovated foundation formulations and shade ranges, especially for darker skin tones, often correcting exclusionary industry practices.
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