cushion the bottom; line one's stomach; rank last
Meanings
4 senses · 8 examplesverb
to put something at the bottom as a base or cushion
informalLiteral meaning, used for placing a lining or base layer.
The bottom of the aquarium is lined with fine sand.
Before planting flowers, first put some gravel at the bottom of the pot.
verb
to eat a little something to stave off hunger temporarily
informalCommon in spoken language, especially before a big meal.
You should eat a little something to tide you over until all the guests arrive.
I ate a cookie to line my stomach before the meeting.
verb
to serve as a foundation; to lay the groundwork
informalMetaphorical usage, often referring to preparatory work.
With your previous work laying the groundwork, my future work will be much easier to carry out.
The foundational knowledge learned in university serves as a base for future specialized research.
verb
to rank last; to be at the bottom
informalMetaphorical usage, often in competitions or rankings.
He ranked last in the competition.
Our class's grades ended up at the bottom this time.