groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇nd-ˌwərk How to pronounce groundwork (audio)
: foundation, basis
laid the groundwork for a new program
also : preparation made beforehand
the groundwork was done before the winter tour Susan Reiter

Examples of groundwork in a Sentence

they had collectively laid the groundwork for a new kind of art
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Within the structure of a ripping postapocalyptic horror-thriller and laying the groundwork for two more stories, Boyle and the creative team have crafted a story that explores questions both big and small, from the specifics of personal survival to the origins of a society. Mark Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2025 Federal officials said this laid the groundwork for Reis and his alleged co-conspirators to help fraudulently obtain New York driver’s licenses for immigrants who did not live in the state. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 17 June 2025 These steps lay the groundwork for sustained growth and long-term success in an ever-evolving IT landscape. Michael George, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025 Much of the groundwork for any transfer is done before sporting directors at the buying clubs get fully involved, with a modern recruitment team’s responsibilities stretching beyond studying potential signings and compiling reports on them. Steve Madeley, New York Times, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for groundwork

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of groundwork was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Groundwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/groundwork. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

groundwork

noun
ground·​work ˈgrau̇n-ˌdwərk How to pronounce groundwork (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on groundwork

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