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Bedrock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bedrock

[ˈbɛdrɒk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

geology

Solid rock underlying loose deposits such as soil or alluvium.

Synonyms

solid rock, substratum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bedrock

Use this to describe the very strong, fundamental parts of something, often used in a metaphorical or geological sense.

  • Freedom is the bedrock of our society
  • The foundation of the building rests on bedrock
solid rock

This phrase is often used in a more literal sense to describe a very hard, compact rock. It's less frequently used metaphorically.

  • The climbers found a solid rock to plant their gear into
  • They hit solid rock while digging the well
substratum

Used in scientific or technical contexts to refer to the layer of material that underlies another layer. It is often used in geology, biology, or construction.

  • The plants take root in the substratum of the forest floor
  • Scientists studied the substratum of the ocean bed

Examples of usage

  • The drill penetrated the bedrock to a depth of 100 feet.
  • The foundation of the building is anchored in the bedrock.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative

The fundamental principles or support on which something is based.

Synonyms

cornerstone, foundation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bedrock

Use in geological or metaphorical contexts to describe something that serves as a basic principle or the groundwork of a system.

  • The bedrock of the economy is consumer confidence
  • The geologists finally hit bedrock after drilling for several days
foundation

Widely used to refer to the underlying basis or support of something, whether it's physical like a building or abstract like an idea. Commonly used in construction and philosophical contexts.

  • The foundation of the new building was laid in spring
  • Education is the foundation for a prosperous society
cornerstone

Best used in contexts referring to something fundamental or essential upon which a larger system or idea is created. Often used metaphorically in architecture and leadership principles.

  • Trust is the cornerstone of any successful relationship
  • The new school was built with modern teaching at its cornerstone

Examples of usage

  • Trust is the bedrock of any relationship.
  • Education is the bedrock of a strong society.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geology

  • Bedrock is usually found below soil and sediment and serves as the foundation for mountains, hills, and buildings.
  • Different types of bedrock can tell us a lot about the history of the Earth, as they vary from ancient rocks over billions of years to new volcanic formations.
  • In many places, bedrock can be exposed at the surface, telling a story of natural processes like erosion or glaciation.

Cultural Significance

  • In construction, knowledge of bedrock depth is crucial to ensure the stability of buildings and infrastructure.
  • Metaphorically, 'bedrock' is used in discussions about foundational principles or moral beliefs that support people's actions or societies.
  • In music and art, 'bedrock' can symbolize strength, reliability, or an essential quality that keeps everything together.

Literature

  • Authors often use 'bedrock' to symbolize a deep-rooted truth or fundamental belief in storytelling.
  • In poetry, references to bedrock may evoke themes of permanence versus impermanence, illustrating life's fleeting nature against solid foundations.

Environmental Science

  • Bedrock plays an essential role in groundwater flow and quality, influencing the availability of water resources for ecosystems and human use.
  • The composition of bedrock affects soil characteristics above it, impacting what plants can grow in an area and how land is used.

Pop Culture

  • 'Bedrock' is famously known as the home of the Flintstones, a cartoon that portrays prehistoric life and modern marvels of that time.
  • In various video games, 'bedrock' represents an unbreakable layer, serving as a foundational barrier for players in building or survival scenarios.

Origin of 'bedrock'

The word 'bedrock' originated in the early 17th century, combining 'bed' and 'rock'. It refers to the solid rock underlying loose deposits. Over time, the term has been extended to figurative contexts, symbolizing the fundamental principles or support on which something is based. 'Bedrock' has been a metaphorical cornerstone in English vocabulary, emphasizing the importance of strong foundations.

See also: bed, bedclothes, bedding, bedridden, bedroom, bedspread, bedtime.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,406, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.