taproot

noun

tap·​root ˈtap-ˌrüt 

-ˌru̇t

1

: a primary root that grows vertically downward and gives off small lateral roots

2

: the central element or position in a line of growth or development

Examples of taproot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Radishes are a root vegetable (specifically a taproot) full of peppery flavor, vitamin C, and fiber. —Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 4 Aug. 2025

Also called Eastern hemlock, the species is hardy in Zones 3-7. 05 of 07 Sweet Gum Sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) features a deep taproot and fleshy roots that can be slow to reestablish after planting. —Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Mar. 2025

The taproot of this story is often identified with the infamous redlining maps created by the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation, or HOLC, a New Deal agency established in 1933. —Idrees Kahloon, New Yorker, 28 July 2025

Boiling water may even reach the taproot or at least kill the growing points on tough weeds. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

tap entry 3

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for taproot

• acute
• aleut
• astute
• beetroot
• breadfruit
• cheroot
• commute
• compute
• confute
• dilute
• dispute
• elute

Kids Definition

taproot

noun

tap·​root ˈtap-ˌrüt 

-ˌru̇t

: a large main root that grows straight down and gives off many smaller side roots compare fibrous root