root
noun
Definitions of root noun
plant
- B2Countable
The part of a plant that grows into the ground, absorbing water and nutrients while anchoring the plant.
origin
- C1Countable
The underlying cause or origin of something negative or problematic.
We need to identify the root of the issue and investigate the reasons behind this problem thoroughly.
The fundamental cause of this issue is their lack of interest.
Unemployment and poverty are at the root of the high crime rate.
body
- Countable
The part of a hair, tooth, or nail that is embedded beneath the skin.
language
- Countablelanguagespecialized
The most basic form of a word, to which prefixes, suffixes, or other parts can be attached.
The word "sit" is the root of the word "sitting".
math
- Countablemathematicsspecialized
A solution to a mathematical equation.
- Countablespecialized
A number that, when multiplied by itself one or more times, produces a particular number.
The square root of 64 is 8, and its cube root is 4.
Phrases of root noun
- roots
The origin or fundamental source from which something grows or develops.
• The company traces its roots back to a small family business.
verb
Definitions of root verb
search
- IntransitiveVerb + adv/prep
To search for something by turning things over or moving them around.
She was rooting through the documents on her desk, looking for something.
The pigs were rooting around in the forest for acorns.
plant
- Intransitive
To develop or grow roots.
These trees were unable to take root and died.
Idioms
- root and branch
In a complete and thorough manner; entirely.
• We need to eliminate the bureaucracy within this company, root and branch.
- take root
To become established or accepted; to start to have an influence.
• The idea of new technology is quickly taking root among the younger generation.
- put down roots
To settle down and establish a sense of belonging in a new place by forming relationships and participating in local activities.
• After years of traveling, they decided to put down roots in a picturesque small town.
Phrasal Verbs of root
- root around (somewhere)
to look for something by sifting through other objects.
• When I couldn't find my keys, I started to root around on the sofa.
- root something/someone out
to diligently search for and locate something or someone that is hard to discover
• The police spent several months trying to root out the missing suspect.
- root something out/up
to extract a plant from the soil completely, including all its roots
• The farmer decided to root out the weeds completely to ensure the crops grow healthily.
- root for someone
to express encouragement towards someone undertaking a challenging task
• The audience kept rooting for him during the competition.