grassroots

American  

[gras-roots, -roots, grahs-] / ˈgræsˌruts, -ˌrʊts, ˈgrɑs- /

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.

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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.

Etymology

Origin of grassroots

1910–15 grassroots for def. 1

Example Sentences

The Greens had never won a parliamentary by-election before, and ran a grassroots campaign that sought to mobilise the constituency's 28 percent Muslim population.

From Barron's

The Society for Community Organization, a grassroots advocacy group, said the budget was lacking in welfare spending despite an uptick in government revenue.

From Barron's

Amalfitano invites grassroots groups to use the store to organize, make posters and safety kits, hold “know your rights” workshops and run community watchdog groups for nearby Home Depot stores.

From Los Angeles Times

"Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots," he said in a statement.

From Barron's

Fiji Rugby Union chief executive Koli Sewabu said playing games overseas would "enable us to invest more into grassroots rugby supporting the continued growth and success of the team".

From Barron's