taproot

noun tap·root \ -ˌrüt , -ˌru̇t \

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

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
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
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
The part used is the long taproot of first-year plants.

— margaret lauterbach, idahostatesman, "Some non-native weeds flourish in Idaho," 31 May 2017
In contrast to a typical skyscraper, in which same-size floors are piled atop one another like so many pancakes, the taproot system lets floors vary in size, opening a high-rise's interior and letting space flow between floors.

— blair kamin, chicagotribune.com, "Frank Lloyd Wright's Mile-High skyscraper never built, but never forgotten," 26 May 2017
As a companion plant, purslane provides ground cover and retains humidity, and the deep taproot breaks through difficult soil and extracts nutrients nearby plants can use.

— kenneth setzer, miamiherald, "Yes, you can have a summer vegetable garden in Miami (but maybe not the plants you expect)," 24 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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