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

Explanation

Something grassroots is at the most basic level of something, down there in the dirt with the roots of an idea or activity. If you’re looking to make a change from the ground up, start at the grassroots. If you want a gorgeous yard, don’t fluff the blades of grass, get down to work on the roots and soil. The grassroots is the most fundamental, basic level of well, grass, but also ideas or political movements. Freedom is a grassroots value of America. Love is a grassroots part of marriage. Reading and writing are grassroots elements of education. Grassroots is where things begin and shoot out from.

Example Sentences

"Things have conspired against grassroot artists," he tells BBC News, "and without grassroots artists, there are no big artists."

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

A grassroots community event in the game “World of Warcraft,” the Race to World First is more of a marathon, sometimes lasting over a month.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

Organisers said the event resonated a powerful message of solidarity and was a grassroots response to the ecological plight of the UK and Ireland's largest freshwater lake.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

The golf industry is beginning to adapt to these pressures, but local golf courses must lead at the grassroots level.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Over the years, it had taken hold at the grassroots, and in 1960 Levi was one of fifty thousand boys gearing up to compete in local races around the country.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly