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Definitions

root

[root, root] / rut, rʊt /
NOUN
base, core
Synonyms
STRONGEST
essence foundation heart origin seed soul source stem stuff
STRONG
basis bedrock beginnings bottom cause center crux derivation essentiality footing fountain fountainhead fundamental germ ground groundwork inception infrastructure mainspring marrow motive nub nucleus occasion pith provenance provenience quick quintessence radicle radix reason rhizome seat substance substratum tuber underpinning well
WEAK
rock bottom starting point
Antonyms
STRONGEST
effect end result
STRONG
conclusion consequence exterior exteriority extra outgrowth outside trivia
WEAK
derivation derivative sprout
VERB
dig and search
Synonyms
STRONGEST
embed ingrain
STRONG
burrow delve ferret forage grub hunt lodge nose place poke pry rummage
WEAK
grub up
Antonyms
STRONG
cover dislodge leave alone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They were clear-eyed about the root of the problem – while also feeling afraid.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

Phosphorus helps transport energy within plant cells and is critical for early root growth and the formation of seeds and fruit.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

The ministry "calls for building upon this positive step by launching serious and sustainable dialogue tracks that address the root causes of the disputes and strengthen mutual trust," it said on X.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

“We haven’t fought the root cause,” the chemistry major said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

It didn’t very take long for the bean to take root in the sand below Malevolent’s castle.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley

Vocabulary lists containing root

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Vernal Vocabulary of Spring

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!