Bedrock: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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