étayé

Étayé is a French term that translates to "propped up," "supported," or "substantiated" in English. It is commonly used in a literal sense to describe physical support, such as a wall being étayé with beams to prevent collapse. In this context, it implies adding structural reinforcement to ensure stability.

Beyond its physical meaning, étayé frequently appears in more abstract or figurative contexts. When an argument, theory, or statement is described as étayé, it means it is backed up by evidence, facts, or logical reasoning. It suggests that the claim is not merely an opinion but is grounded in solid foundations that make it credible and defensible. For instance, a historical account might be étayé by primary sources, or a scientific hypothesis could be étayé by experimental data. The term implies a level of rigor and verification, indicating that the subject in question has been examined and found to have adequate justification. Therefore, an étayé claim is one that can withstand scrutiny due to its supporting elements.