taproot

noun tap·root \ ˈtap-ˌrüt , -ˌru̇t \

Updated on: 21 Mar 2018

Definition of taproot

1 : a primary root that grows vertically downward and gives off small lateral roots

2 : the central element or position in a line of growth or development

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Recent Examples of taproot from the Web

Dandelions are another perennial weed, sprouting from a deep taproot in early spring.

— beth botts, chicagotribune.com, "Some of the first plants to spring up after winter are weeds. Here's how to get control.," 13 Mar. 2018
These are the taproots that encourage the unjust discrimination against all beets that infects most small children.

— mike sula, Chicago Reader, "With Marisol inside the MCA, Jason Hammel paints a new canvas," 13 Dec. 2017
This nutritious green has deep taproots, and can be grown to maturity best as a fall crop.

— margaret lauterbach, idahostatesman, "Which plants did well for you, and which did not? | Idaho Statesman," 25 Oct. 2017
From its lovely purple-black berries to the very tip of its stout, white taproot, the plant is poison.

— dave taft, New York Times, "The Vegetarian’s Puffer Fish," 5 Oct. 2017
But the taproot of Yogi Adityanath’s popularity is in a more ominous place.

— ellen barry and suhasini raj, New York Times, "Firebrand Hindu Cleric Ascends India’s Political Ladder," 12 July 2017
Heading that list would be anything with a taproot.

— bonnie blodgett, Twin Cities, "Blundering Gardener: Looking for free plants? Divide the ones you have," 3 June 2017
Some weeds, such as dandelions and plantains, have a deep, carrotlike taproot.

— beth botts, chicagotribune.com, "10 tactics to beat back weeds," 12 June 2017
The part used is the long taproot of first-year plants.

— margaret lauterbach, idahostatesman, "Some non-native weeds flourish in Idaho," 31 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'taproot.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of taproot

³tap

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First Known Use: 1601

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TAPROOT Defined for English Language Learners

taproot

noun

Definition of taproot for English Language Learners

: the large main root of a plant from which smaller roots grow

TAPROOT Defined for Kids

taproot

noun tap·root \ ˈtap-ˌrüt , -ˌru̇t \

Definition of taproot for Students

: a main root of a plant that grows straight down and gives off smaller side roots

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See words that rhyme with taproot Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about taproot

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taproot

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