root (A2)

noun

Pronunciation: /ruːt/

Definition

The part of a plant that grows underground and absorbs water and food.

Examples

• The plant died because its roots were damaged.

• We dug up the old tree, but its roots were still in the ground.

• The roots of the flower spread out wide.

How to Use root

root of (prepositional phrase)

The basic cause or origin of something. — "We must find the root of the issue."

root out (phrasal verb)

To find and remove something bad or unwanted. — "The police are trying to root out corruption."

Synonyms of root

Words with a similar meaning to root:

• base
• origin
• source
• foundation

Antonyms of root

Words with the opposite meaning to root:

• top
• branch
• shoot

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