Meaning & Definition of Root in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: The part of a plant that attaches it to the ground, typically underground.

  Example Sentence: The tree's roots spread wide and deep into the soil.

• Definition: The foundational or primary source of something.

  Example Sentence: The root of the problem lies in communication.

• Definition: A number that produces a specified quantity when multiplied by itself.

  Example Sentence: The square root of 16 is 4.

• Definition: A person or thing from which something originates.

  Example Sentence: She is the root of many innovations in technology.

• Definition: In linguistics, the base form of a word to which affixes can be added.

  Example Sentence: The root of the word 'running' is 'run'.

Etymology

Origin: Old English 'wyrt', meaning 'plant', and later 'root'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• root cause: The primary reason for a problem.
• put down roots: To settle in one place.
• root for someone: To support or cheer for someone.

Translations

• Spanish: raíz

• French: racine

• German: Wurzel

• Russian: корень

Related Words

• rooted: Established firmly.

• uproot: To remove completely.

• rootstock: The part of a plant onto which another plant is grafted.

Slang Meanings of root

• Meaning: To have sex (Australian slang).

  Example Sentence: They were rooting all night.

• Meaning: To cheer for or support a team (informal).

  Example Sentence: I'm rooting for the home team in the finals.