Unterlage

Unterlage is a German noun that denotes something placed underneath to provide support, protection, or a base. The term covers physical objects such as pads, mats, or boards used as underlays, as well as abstract notions like background material or evidence that underpins a decision. In everyday language, the plural Unterlagen refers to documents or paperwork, for example in administrative or legal contexts.

Etymology: The word combines unter- meaning “under” and Lage meaning “place” or “position,” literally “something placed underneath.” In many contexts the singular Unterlage refers to the base material, while Unterlagen designates a collection of documents or supporting materials.

In practical use, Unterlagen can be a protective or leveling underlay in crafts and construction (Holzunterlage, Filzunterlage, rubber underlay), or a mounting sheet in printing and framing. The term also appears in technical settings to describe the base layer that supports a component or structure.

In horticulture and botany, Unterlage designates the rootstock or grafting stock onto which another plant is attached. The Unterlage provides the root system and can influence vigour, size, and compatibility with the scion.

In administrative and legal contexts, Unterlage or Unterlagen means the documents or evidence submitted to support a case or request. A specific document may be referred to as die Unterlage, while the set of materials is die Unterlagen.

See also: underlay, substrate, rootstock, document.