Main Entry: bas·al

Pronunciation: \ˈbā-səl, -zəl\

Function: adjective

Date: 1645

1 a : relating to, situated at, or forming the base b : arising from the base of a stem <basal leaves>
2 a : of or relating to the foundation, base, or essence : fundamental b : of, relating to, or being essential for maintaining the fundamental vital activities of an organism : minimal <a basal diet> c : used for teaching beginners <basal readers>

— ba·sal·ly adverb