■ adjective
1》 forming an essential foundation; fundamental.
2》 consisting of the minimum required or offered: the food was good, if a bit ~.
3》 Chemistry containing or having the properties of a base; alkaline.
↘ Geology relatively poor in silica: ~ lava.
↘ Metallurgy relating to or denoting steel-making processes involving lime-rich materials: ~ slag.
■ noun ( ~s )
1》 the essential facts or principles of a subject or skill.
2》 essential food or materials.