1. (adj)implicit in(p), inherent, underlying in the nature of something though not readily apparent
"shortcomings inherent in our approach"; "an underlying meaning"
2. (adj)underlying located beneath or below
3. (adj)fundamental, rudimentary, underlying being or involving basic facts or principles
"the fundamental laws of the universe"; "a fundamental incomatibility between them"; "these rudimentary truths"; "underlying principles"