grassroots

[gras-roots, -roots, grahs-]

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. the common or ordinary people, especially as contrasted with the leadership or elite of a political party, social organization, etc.; the rank and file.

2. the agricultural and rural areas of a country.

3. the people inhabiting these areas, especially as a political, social, or economic group.

4. the origin or basis of something; the basic or primary concept, rule, part, or the like.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or involving the common people, especially as contrasted with or separable from an elite.

   a grassroots movement for nuclear disarmament.

Word History and Origins

Origin of grassroots¹

1910–15 grassroots for def. 1

Example Sentences

“I don’t think that any change in leadership in Israel is going to influence the views and perspectives of the base of the Democratic Party and the grassroots.”

From Salon

What followed was a robust, grassroots effort to review and reply to each section of the report.

From Los Angeles Times

After his coaching career, Raveling joined Nike as the director of grassroots basketball, later rising to the role of director of international basketball.

From Los Angeles Times

Drey, the founder of the grassroots public advocacy group Moms for Iowa, said that her campaign was driven by the need “to make some changes” in Iowa.

From Salon

Lai has also backed a deeply controversial grassroots movement aimed at kicking out opposition politicians perceived as being too close to China.

From BBC