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.