grassroots

1 of 2

adjective

grass·​roots ˈgras-ˌrüts 

-ˌru̇ts

variants or less commonly grassroot

ˈgras-ˌrüt 

-ˌru̇t

1

: basic, fundamental

the grassroots factor in deciding to buy a house

2

: being, originating, or operating in or at the grass roots

a grassroots organization

grassroots political support

3

: not adapted from or added to an existing facility or operation : totally new

a grassroots refinery

grass roots

2 of 2

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

1

: the very foundation or source

You must attack the problem at the grass roots.

2

: the basic level of society or of an organization especially as viewed in relation to higher or more centralized positions of power

was losing touch with the party's grass roots

Examples of grassroots in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Cruz's Democratic opponent, buoyed by significant grassroots support and fundraising, is aiming to replicate the near-upset seen in Cruz's 2018 re-election bid against O'Rourke, where Cruz won by only 2.6 percentage points. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

State of play: A grassroots opposition effort showed up at neighborhood meetings across the city to make its case against the plan. —Nate Rau, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024

Noun

That can be coupled with a broader strategy that feels more authentic, more grass roots. —Sharon Edelson, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024

These grubs feed on grass roots, overwintering to resume feeding in the spring. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

see grass entry 1

First Known Use

Adjective

1912, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Noun

1899, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

grass roots

plural noun

: society at the local and popular level especially in areas away from political or cultural centers