basis Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a relation that provides the foundation for something
    ground; footing.
    • they were on a friendly footing
    • he worked on an interim basis
  2. noun the fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained
    foundation; groundwork; base; fundament; cornerstone.
    • the whole argument rested on a basis of conjecture
  3. noun the most important or necessary part of something
    base.
    • the basis of this drink is orange juice

WordNet

Ba"sis noun
Etymology
L. basis, Gr. . See Base, n.
Wordforms
plural Bases
Definitions
  1. The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests. Dryden.
  2. The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue. Obs.
    If no basis bear my rising name. Pope.
  3. The ground work the first or fundamental principle; that which supports.
    The basis of public credit is good faith. A. Hamilton.
  4. The principal component part of a thing.

Webster 1913