groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇nd-ˌwərk 

: foundation, basis

laid the groundwork for a new program

also : preparation made beforehand

The groundwork was done before the winter tour.

—Susan Reiter

Synonyms of groundwork

• foundation
• basis
• cornerstone
• bedrock

Examples of groundwork in a Sentence

they had collectively laid the groundwork for a new kind of art

Recent Examples on the Web

In 2018, shortly before her passing, Mason laid the groundwork for what would become the Emily Mason | Alice Trumbull Mason Foundation. — News Desk, Artforum, 24 Aug. 2026

Each of these decisions laid the groundwork for the war on Iran today, one that started without a clear strategy on the arrogant expectation of a quick victory. — Alexander Langlois, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026

The president and his allies have spent months laying the groundwork for potential fraud claims relating to the 2026 midterm elections. — Christian Datoc, The Washington Examiner, 21 Aug. 2026

That session laid the groundwork for what ultimately became the 2015 nuclear pact. — Vivian Salama, The Atlantic, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing groundwork

• lay the groundwork/foundation

Rhymes for groundwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇n-ˌdwərk 

: foundation sense 2, basis