ROOTS Synonyms: 155 Similar and Opposite Words

roots 1 of 2

noun

Definition of roots next

plural of root

as in sources

a point or place at which something is invented or provided he insists that insecurity is the root of all jealousy

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Relevance

as in origins

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

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as in foundations

an immaterial thing upon which something else rests an implicit trust in the wisdom of the people is the root of democracy

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as in essences

the central part or aspect of something under consideration at root, it's a question of the proper limits, if any, of free speech

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roots

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of root

as in embeds

to set solidly in or as if in surrounding matter rooted the post securely in the dirt

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 roots

Noun

Instead of focusing on competition, Tucci’s culinary endeavors have centered on reconnecting with his Italian roots. —

Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 7 May 2026 Whole herbs and roots use the plant in its most natural state, while powders are ground down into an easy-to-mix format. —

Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026 One of the major keys to popping curls is a healthy scalp, and this two-in-one cleanser and scrub keeps roots and follicles in prime condition so hair can flourish. —

Aimee Simeon, Glamour, 7 May 2026 While many homeowners view trees through the lens of maintenance costs — regular pruning can be expensive, and tree roots can wreak havoc on sidewalks and underground pipes — the benefits of trees are numerous and well-documented, experts say. —

Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026 Decades in the planning, this property is personal for hotelier and businessman Michael Bennett whose Charleston family roots stretch back to the 1850s. —

Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026 As a proud member of the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians and a person of Hispanic heritage, my roots reflect the diversity of our district. —

Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026 Now, five years after leaving NASA, Bridenstine is returning to those military roots. —

Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 7 May 2026 The ancient herbs and roots themselves are not new. —

Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 7 May 2026

Verb

This is a high-spirited opening for curious neighbors and travelers alike, with a mischievous sense of fun that firmly roots guests in their destination. —

Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026 Louisiana dirty rice is a tasty meat-and-rice dish that roots its flavor in aromatic Cajun seasoning and the holy trinity vegetables. —

Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 12 Jan. 2026 For Pritchard, whose Stanford roots date back to 2005, the chance to return as head coach was both emotional and deeply personal. —

Harold Gutmann, Mercury News, 3 Dec. 2025 Natural rock formations rise through the living room floor, a detail that roots the design in the hillside itself, and a full renovation of an existing home brought it in line with the style of the main house while still maintaining its own identity. —

Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2025 Rising seas could swallow the land that roots our identity. —

Feleti Penitala Teo, Time, 22 Sep. 2025 In a strong culture, everyone roots their daily decisions in a desire to be in it to win it; there's a sense of ownership, pride and belonging. —

Alex Brueckmann, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025 As well, his longstanding appreciation of country music roots his art in respect and reverence of the genre's history. —

Marcus K. Dowling, Nashville Tennessean, 7 Mar. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for roots

Noun

At least three rounds were fired, sources said.

— Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 2 May 2026
So, those considering an annuity should weigh it alongside their broader financial picture, including other assets, income sources and health outlook.

— Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 May 2026