adj. 1. Of, relating to, or forming a base; fundamental: “Basic changes in public opinion often occur because of shifts in concerns and priorities” (Atlantic).
2. Of, being, or serving as a starting point or basis: a basic course in Russian; a set of basic woodworking tools.
3. Chemistry a. Of or relating to a base.
b. Containing a base, especially in excess of acid.
c. Alkaline.
4. Geology Containing little silica, as certain igneous rocks.
5. Slang Unthinkingly or blandly conformist: “Even someone who looks really indie … can be basic if they are simply imitating others rather than thinking for themselves” (Chelsea Rickling).