groundwork
1. [ noun ] the fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained
Synonyms: basis base fundament cornerstone foundation
Examples:

"the whole argument rested on a basis of conjecture"

Related terms: assumption meat_and_potatoes explanation
2. [ noun ] preliminary preparation as a basis or foundation
Examples:

"we are prepared today because of groundwork that was done ten years ago"

Related terms: preparation
3. [ noun ] lowest support of a structure
Synonyms: base foot foundation substructure understructure fundament
Examples:

"it was built on a base of solid rock" "he stood at the foot of the tower"

Related terms: support raft_foundation bed structure
Similar spelling:   grounder
  ground_floor
  ground-floor
  ground_cedar
  ground_stroke
  greyhound
  ground_fir
  grounds
  Grinder
  groundspeed
  ground_pink
  Grand_Turk
  ground_zero
  ground_fire
  groundberry
  groundcover
  ground_crew
  ground_loop
  grandson
  grandeur
  ground_cloth
  groundkeeper
  ground-berry
  grandmother
  ground_snake
  ground_sloth
  ground_forces
  ground_cover
  grind_out
  grandiose
  ground_tackle
  ground_water
  ground-shaker
  groundbreaker
  groundhog
  grounding
  groundnut
  groundsel
  groundskeeper
  ground_out
  groundball
  groundfish
  groundless
  groundling
  groundmass
  groundsman
  ground_ivy
  grand_fir