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n. pl. ba·ses (-sēz′) 1. A fact or circumstance on which something is established: rumors with no basis in reality. See Synonyms at base1. 2. The chief constituent; the fundamental ingredient: The basis for most liquids is water. 3. The fundamental principle: Objective inquiry is the basis of science. 4. a. A pattern or schedule for proceeding: on a weekly basis. b. A condition for relating or proceeding: a first-name basis; a friendly basis. 5. Archaic A physical base on which something rests. [Middle English, foundation upon which something rests, base, from Latin, from Greek, a stepping, that on which one stands, base; see gwā- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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