root
|root|
/ruːt/
foundation or origin
Etymology
'root' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'rōt,' which was borrowed from Old Norse 'rót,' meaning 'root or base.'
'rót' transformed into the Middle English word 'root,' and eventually became the modern English word 'root.'
Initially, it meant 'the underground part of a plant,' but over time it evolved to include meanings like 'origin' and 'cause.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the part of a plant that attaches it to the ground or to a support, typically underground, conveying water and nourishment to the rest of the plant.
The tree's roots are deep and strong.
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Noun 2
the basic cause, source, or origin of something.
The root of the problem lies in poor management.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35