Root Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฑ
root
[ruหt ]
Definitions
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.
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
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.
Translations
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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 plantโs 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 'wrฤd' meant 'root'. The concept of 'root' has been used in various contexts throughout history, from mathematics to botany to computing.