English · Science & Technology
base
/beɪs/
[/beɪs/]
alkaline substance; foundation
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A chemical substance that can neutralise an acid; also the bottom or foundation of something.
Example
A base reacts with an acid to form a salt and water in a balanced reaction.
A base reacts with an acid to form a salt and water in a balanced reaction.
Etymology
From Greek 'basis' (a step, foundation), via Latin and French; the chemical sense is later.
How & Where It’s Used
Has a chemical meaning and many everyday meanings (foundation, military base).