I. ˈbāsəl also -āz- adjective
Etymology: base (I) + -al
1. : relating to, situated at, or forming the base ; specifically : radical I 1a(2)
basal leaves
2.
a. : of or relating to the foundation, base, or essence : fundamental , basic , essential
basal texts in reading
b. : of, relating to, or essential for maintaining the fundamental vital activities of an organism (as respiration, heartbeat, or excretion) : minimal
basal diet
— see basal metabolism
3. : serving as or serving to induce an initial comatose or unconscious state that forms a basis for further anesthetization
basal narcosis
basal anesthetic
• ba·sal·ly -əlē, -əli adverb
II. noun
( -s )
: a basal part or structure ; especially : a basal plate of an echinoderm