soleplate

Meanings

1. The flat metal plate forming the underside of an iron (for ironing laundry).
2. A sole (timber).
3. The base timber in the framing for a wall, to which the studs or posts are attached and on which they rest.
4. The back wall of a bucket on a water wheel (which is omitted in certain designs).
5. Any baseplate on which machinery rests, especially one to which things are bolted.
6. A flat surface on which the sole of the foot rests.

Etymology

From sole + plate.