Main Entry: grass·roots

Pronunciation: \ˈgras-ˌrüts, -ˌru̇ts\

Variant(s): also grass·root \-ˌrüt, -ˌru̇t\

Function: adjective

Date: 1907

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>