Main Entry: ba·sal

Pronunciation: \ˈbā-səl, -zəl\

Function: adjective

1 : relating to, situated at, or forming the base
2 : of, relating to, or essential for maintaining the fundamental vital activities of an organism (as respiration, heartbeat, or excretion) <a basal diet>—see basal metabolism
3 : serving as or serving to induce an initial comatose or unconscious state that forms a basis for further anesthetization <basal narcosis> <a basal anesthetic>

—ba·sal·ly \-ē\ adverb