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

"With a truly member-led party, we will offer something different: democratic, grassroots, accountable."

From BBC

The “Remove the Regime” event was organized by member organizations of the Removal Coalition, a grassroots effort just like the Ohio bus trip.

From Salon

“She would use all these lessons,” Ms. Rinehart writes, “to build a grassroots machine unlike any Montana had ever seen.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Despite the problems at elite level, grassroots level basketball is thriving.

From BBC

Rather, the momentum is coming from a grassroots base of parents, educators and mental-health advocates.

From The Wall Street Journal