taproot

noun

tap·​root ˈtap-ˌrüt 

-ˌru̇t

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

Examples of taproot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Trees with an extensive taproot system Planting Instructions Planting a bare-root tree involves certain stages—below, our experts break down each one. —Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 10 Mar. 2026

For perennial weeds, early removal limits the development of taproots, rhizomes, and other difficult to remove plant structures. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026

The best home remedy for killing dandelions is to pull them out, ensuring that the entire taproot has been removed. —Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 7 Mar. 2026

American beech trees send down a taproot, but after about 25 to 30 years, more shallow roots draw the nutrients, leaving the taproot’s function to be structural rather than nutritional. —Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

tap entry 3

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for taproot

• acute
• aleut
• astute
• beetroot
• breadfruit
• cheroot
• commute
• compute
• confute
• dilute
• dispute
• elute

Kids Definition

taproot

noun

tap·​root ˈtap-ˌrüt 

-ˌru̇t

: a large main root that grows straight down and gives off many smaller side roots compare fibrous root