grassroots
[ gras-roots, -roo ts, grahs- ]
/ ˈgræsˌruts, -ˌrʊts, ˈgrɑs- /
noun (used with a singular or plural verb) Also grass roots.
the common or ordinary people, especially as contrasted with the leadership or elite of a political party, social organization, etc.; the rank and file.
the agricultural and rural areas of a country.
the people inhabiting these areas, especially as a political, social, or economic group.
the origin or basis of something; the basic or primary concept, rule, part, or the like.
adjective Also grass-roots.
of, relating to, or involving the common people, especially as contrasted with or separable from an elite: a grassroots movement for nuclear disarmament.
Origin of grassroots
1910–15
Americanism
for def 1
Words nearby grassroots
British Dictionary definitions for grass roots
grass roots
pl n
- the ordinary people as distinct from the active leadership of a party or organization: used esp of the rank-and-file members of a political party, or of the voters themselves
- (as modifier)the newly elected MP expressed a wish for greater contact with people at grass-roots level
the origin or essentials
Word Origin for grass roots
C20: sense 1 originally US, with reference to rural areas in contrast to the towns