Basis /(bā"sĭs)/

Ba·sis

Basis

n.

pl. Bases ((bā"sēz))

  1. The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests.
  2. The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue. [Obs.]
    If no basis bear my rising name.
  3. The groundwork; 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.