root cause is not in our dictionary (yet). Here's what it could mean:

Results generated using artificial intelligence.

noun

The fundamental reason for the occurrence of a problem or event, which, if removed, would prevent the issue from recurring.

Examples are provided to illustrate usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"It's too early to know the root cause but we're already working to find it," Bezos wrote on X.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

I know that real problem-solving starts with diagnosing the root cause.

From BBC • May 29, 2026