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

Start the seeds in biodegradable pots to minimize any disturbance to their fragile taproot and avoid transplant shock. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2026

Some fruit trees with taproots, including pawpaws, citrus trees, and persimmons, may struggle when grown from bare-root plants, but are much easier to grow from potted ones. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Jan. 2026

And that story, like the tree’s deep taproot, has been meaningful to Indigenous people for millennia. —Suzanne Wright, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025

Radishes are a root vegetable (specifically a taproot) full of peppery flavor, vitamin C, and fiber. —Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 4 Aug. 2025

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