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.

---

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 Music Venue Trust, a charity that supports the grassroots scene, welcomed Styles' gesture.

From BBC

Mariam says she was "lucky" to cut her teeth in an inclusive academy but believes better representation starts at grassroots level, which feeds into the talent pool for bigger clubs.

From BBC

But there was some good news: The number of people attending gigs at a grassroots level rose by 13%, with 21 million fans checking out shows in 2025.

From BBC

In an email to DUP members Robinson said he wanted to "reflect the desire across grassroots unionism to see unionist representatives and their political parties working together to promote the union".

From BBC

Members of Stand With Crypto, one of the industry’s biggest grassroots organizations, have also flooded Congress with calls to pass industry rules.

From The Wall Street Journal