root

The part of a plant, usually below the ground, that takes in water and holds it in place.

• The tree has deep roots.
• Water reaches the plant through its roots.
• We dug carefully to avoid damaging a root.

Similar words: fang

Common phrases: tree root, root system, root growth

The basic cause or beginning of something.

• We found the root of the problem.
• His anger had its roots in fear.
• Poor communication lies at the root of these mistakes.

How to use it: the root of something (Fear was the root of their disagreement.)

Similar words: source, origin, cause

Common phrases: root cause, root of something, at the root

The part of a tooth inside the bone that keeps it in place.

• The dentist examined the tooth root.
• An infection had damaged both roots.
• This tooth has a very long root.

Similar words: fang

Common phrases: tooth root, root canal, root damage

To find and remove something unwanted completely.

• We must root out corruption.
• She rooted out the weeds behind the shed.
• The new manager promised to root the problem out.

How to use it: root out something (The inspectors are trying to root out fraud.)

Similar words: eliminate, eradicate, remove

Common phrases: root out corruption, root something out, root out weeds

To have a particular cause, origin, or basic belief.

• His fear is rooted in childhood experiences.
• These customs are deeply rooted in local history.
• Their disagreement was rooted in different beliefs.

How to use it: be rooted in something (Her confidence is rooted in years of practice.)

Similar words: originate, stem

Common phrases: root in something, deeply root something

To develop the underground parts that support a plant, or help a plant develop them.

• The cuttings will root soon.
• I rooted the stems in a small pot.
• Has this young plant rooted yet?

How to use it: root in something (These cuttings root easily in water.)

Common phrases: root in soil, root a cutting, root in water, root well

To dig or turn over the ground with the nose, as pigs do.

• The pig rooted in the mud.
• Wild boars had rooted the soft ground.
• The animals root for food near the stream.

How to use it: root for something (The pigs rooted for food beneath the trees.); root in something (A boar was rooting in the mud.)

Similar words: dig

Common phrases: root the ground, root for truffles, root in mud