A widened base that supports foundation walls is referred to as what?

The correct term for a widened base that supports foundation walls is a footing. Footings are crucial components of a building's foundation because they distribute the weight of the structure and provide stability, preventing settlement and shifting of the foundation over time. They are usually made of concrete and are designed to provide a strong support base that can handle the load of the wall and any additional weight from the structure above.

In contrast, a slab refers to a flat, horizontal surface typically used in concrete construction as a foundation itself, rather than the support for walls. A column is a vertical structure that supports beams or arches, while a beam serves to support loads from above, transferring that weight down to columns or walls. Understanding these definitions helps clarify the specific role of each component in building construction, particularly the foundational aspects.