Meaning & use
root
The part of a plant that grows underground, absorbing water and nutrients and anchoring it in the soil.
See it in a sentence
The tree's roots had grown so large they were beginning to crack the sidewalk.
Gardeners loosened the soil carefully to avoid damaging the plant's delicate roots.
A note on using this word
Root is also used figuratively for the origin or cause of something (the root of the problem) and in mathematics for a number that produces a given value when multiplied by itself.
Words with a similar meaning
This term is best learned through its definition and examples.
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
The basic cause, source, or origin of a problem, feeling, or situation.
Getting enough sleep addressed the root of her constant afternoon headaches.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “root”, then compare your use with the examples above.