What is the name for the projecting course at the base of a foundation wall that prevents lateral shifting?

The projecting course at the base of a foundation wall that prevents lateral shifting is known as a footing. This structural element acts as a stable base that distributes the weight of the building above while also providing resistance to lateral forces, such as those caused by soil pressure or earth movement. The footing is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the foundation and ensuring that the structure remains level and secure over time.

In contrast, a slab typically refers to a flat, horizontal surface that serves as a floor or roof and does not provide the same level of support against lateral shifting. A base plate is usually used in conjunction with columns or walls to provide a secure connection to the foundation, but it does not serve the same function as a footing. The term "foundation wall" refers to the vertical structure that supports the above-ground portions of a building, but it does not specifically address the need for lateral stability that the footing provides.