groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇nd-ˌwərk 

: foundation, basis

laid the groundwork for a new program

also : preparation made beforehand

the groundwork was done before the winter tour

—Susan Reiter

Synonyms

• base
• basis
• bedrock
• bottom
• cornerstone
• footing
• foundation
• ground
• keystone
• root
• underpinning
• warp
• warp and woof

Examples of groundwork in a Sentence

they had collectively laid the groundwork for a new kind of art

Recent Examples on the Web

By investing in these critical areas, infrastructure funds are enabling the seamless operation of digital ecosystems while laying the groundwork for future technological advancements. —Emil Sayegh, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024

This is a watch that helped lay the groundwork for the likes of Max Büsser of MB&F, Martin Frei and Felix Baumgartner of Urwerk, and many others ready to challenge our conception of what a watch could be. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 26 Dec. 2024

It’s been over two decades since Honda last released a new Prelude, but the company began laying the groundwork for its return with the release of a concept version last year. —Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 17 Dec. 2024

Bills starter running back James Cook, meanwhile, took care of the groundwork. —Colton Pouncy, The Athletic, 16 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing groundwork

• lay the groundwork/foundation

Kids Definition

groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇n-ˌdwərk 

: foundation sense 2, basis