Root Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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root

[ruหt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The number or quantity which, when multiplied by itself a certain number of times, produces a given number or expression.

Synonyms

radical, square root.

Examples of usage

  • The square root of 9 is 3.
  • To find the square root of a number, you must multiply a number by itself.
Context #2 | Noun

botany

The part of a plant that attaches it to the ground or to a support, typically underground, conveying water and nourishment to the rest of the plant via numerous branches and fibers.

Synonyms

rhizome, tuber.

Examples of usage

  • The roots of the tree spread out deeply into the soil.
  • The root system of the plant is crucial for its survival.
Context #3 | Verb

computing

To gain access to the root account or system of a computer or network.

Synonyms

access, hack.

Examples of usage

  • Hackers attempted to root the company's servers.
  • Rooting a device gives the user more control over its functions.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Botany

  • Roots can grow deep underground or spread out wide to gather water and nutrients for the plant.
  • Some plants, like carrots or beets, have edible roots that people eat, providing essential vitamins.
  • Roots can release hormones that control the plantโ€™s growth and development, acting like messengers beneath the soil.

Culture

  • In many cultures, roots symbolize family heritage and origins, representing where you come from.
  • Songs and literature often reference roots when discussing identity and belonging, promoting the idea of staying grounded.
  • Festivals celebrate local harvests, where roots play a significant role in traditional meals and recipes.

Psychology

  • Metaphorically, rooting oneself in a community can lead to better mental health and happiness.
  • Rootedness in one's cultural background can foster a strong sense of identity and self-worth.
  • Feeling 'rootless' may lead to anxiety or depression, as connections provide support and a sense of belonging.

Mathematics

  • In math, a 'root' refers to a solution of an equation, showing the foundational nature of numbers and functions.
  • The square root of a number is a value which, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number.
  • Roots are essential in algebra, where they can signify points where graphs intersect axes, illustrating the foundation of functions.

Origin of 'root'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'root' comes from the Old English 'wrode,' which means 'a root or plant'.
  • It is related to the Proto-Germanic word '*wrodiz', which also referred to the roots of plants.
  • The same root concept appears in the Latin word 'radix', which further led to terms in science and mathematics.

The word 'root' has its origin in Old English 'rot' and is related to the Old Norse 'rot'. In Proto-Indo-European, the word 'wrฤd' meant 'root'. The concept of 'root' has been used in various contexts throughout history, from mathematics to botany to computing.


See also: roots, rootstalk, rootstock, uproot.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,208, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.