root 1 of 2

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2
as in origin
the source from which something grows or develops one would need to go back at least several hundred years to find the root of the entrenched hostility between the neighboring nations

Synonyms & Similar Words

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root

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word root distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of root are inception, origin, and source. While all these words mean "the point at which something begins its course or existence," root suggests a first, ultimate, or fundamental source often not easily discerned.

the real root of the violence

When would inception be a good substitute for root?

While the synonyms inception and root are close in meaning, inception stresses the beginning of something without implying causes.

the business has been a success since its inception

When is it sensible to use origin instead of root?

The synonyms origin and root are sometimes interchangeable, but origin applies to the things or persons from which something is ultimately derived and often to the causes operating before the thing itself comes into being.

an investigation into the origin of baseball

Where would source be a reasonable alternative to root?

In some situations, the words source and root are roughly equivalent. However, source applies more often to the point where something springs into being.

the source of the Nile
the source of recurrent trouble

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of root
Noun
While turmeric is a root that is ground into a spice, curcumin is the main chemical compound responsible for its yellow-orange color and many of its health benefits.1 How to Use Turmeric for Weight Loss There's no exact prescription for how much turmeric to eat to lose weight. Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 21 May 2025 The roots of their comfortable dynamic stem from the history of Angels GM Perry Minasian, who took over in 2020 after spending four years as an assistant GM under Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos in Atlanta; the pair also worked together for seven years in Toronto. Sam Blum, New York Times, 19 May 2025
Verb
But the Pope's rooting interest apparently might not end with baseball. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 10 May 2025 Some plants are just happier if rooted directly in soil. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for root
Recent Examples of Synonyms for root
Noun
  • The extraordinary source material is a profound inspiration to build a unique world that vibrates with life and death at the same time.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 16 May 2025
  • During the speech, McLean mentioned uncertainty in federal funding sources while discussing affordability in Boise.
    Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • For many New Yorkers of Mexican origin, seeing the Cuauhtémoc sail into our harbor was a proud and emotional moment.
    Eric Adams, New York Daily News, 22 May 2025
  • Michelle Williams is a solid second, receiving some keen support from the panel, but Milioti’s rising crime boss with a brutal origin story has stolen the BuzzMeter’s heart.
    Michael Ordoña, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2025
Noun
  • Drawing on a unique educational foundation that combines mechanical engineering, business, metaphysics, and computer science, Gopi connects patterns that others might miss through his academic research.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 16 May 2025
  • Citrus: The Backbone of the Bar Cart Best with: Vodka, gin, tequila, rum, whiskey If cocktails had a flavor foundation, citrus would be it.
    Emily Price, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • When beta-carotene isn't present, the kernels are pale white.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 May 2025
  • Rather than constantly chasing the newest shiny kernel of knowledge, aim for depth and breadth.
    Dennis Kozak, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
Verb
  • Monday, May 19 at 2 a.m. ET (video embedded above).
    Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 16 May 2025
  • Various vendors demoed other full dashboard displays embedded in other automotive applications at the show.
    Tim Bajarin, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • This is a custom layer within the mattress designed to adapt and cradle sleepers at any position.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 9 May 2025
  • Image Cardinal Parolin grew up in Schiavon, a small town in the northern Italian region of Veneto that is known as a cradle of popes.
    Jason Horowitz, New York Times, 3 May 2025
Noun
  • Coming back as a judge 20 years later is such a special full-circle moment for me and it’s meant a lot to share that journey with the people that have been there from the beginning, as well as a whole new generation of Idol fans.
    Michelle Lee, People.com, 18 May 2025
  • The inaugural Mass marked the official beginning of Leo’s pontificate.
    Molly Bohannon, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
Noun
  • Now, it’s being discussed and measured in people’s bloodwork on a more widespread basis.
    Stacey Colino, Time, 22 May 2025
  • These human rights groups were nowhere to be seen when these terrorists were violating the human rights of millions of people on a daily basis.
    Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 22 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Root.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/root. Accessed 30 May. 2025.

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