Ba"sis (?), n.; pl. Bases (#). [L. basis, Gr. . See Base, n.]
1.
The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests.
Dryden.
2.
The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue.
[Obs.]
If no basis bear my rising name.
Pope.
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3.
The ground work the first or fundamental principle; that which supports.
The basis of public credit is good faith.
A. Hamilton.
4.
The principal component part of a thing.
© Webster 1913.