taproot
/ˈtæpˌrut/
noun
- The main, thick root of a plant that grows straight down into the soil and from which smaller roots grow.
- The carrot's taproot stores nutrients for the plant.
- The taproot of the oak tree helps it survive during droughts.
- Gardeners often need to dig deep to remove the entire taproot of a dandelion.
- The main source or origin of something, especially a problem or idea.
- Lack of education is the taproot of poverty in many communities.
- The historian traced the taproot of the conflict back to ancient land disputes.
- Her love of music was the taproot of her entire career.