basal
UK: ˈbeɪs(ə)l | US: ˈbeɪs(ə)l
adj. relating to or forming the base or foundation
adj. (biology) situated at the base of a structure or organ
adj. (chemistry) serving as a primary standard or reference
basal = bas<base> + al<adjective suffix>
- bas (from Latin basis, meaning "base, foundation")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word basal traces back to the Latin basis (base) and the suffix -alis, which denotes relation. It entered English via scientific and medical contexts in the 19th century, emphasizing foundational or primary qualities. The morpheme bas preserves the core idea of "base," while -al adapts it into an adjective, reflecting its functional role in describing fundamental attributes.
The basal layer of the skin is crucial for regeneration.
In botany, basal leaves grow directly from the plant's base.
The experiment used a basal solution for calibration.
His theory provides a basal framework for further research.
The basal metabolic rate varies with age and activity level.