English · Adjectives
fundamental
/ˌfʌn.dəˈmen.təl/
[/ˌfʌn.dəˈmen.təl/]
basic and essential
Intermediateadjective
Definition
Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
Example
A fundamental principle of the theory is that energy can never simply disappear.
A fundamental principle of the theory is that energy can never simply disappear.
Etymology
From Latin 'fundamentum' (foundation), from 'fundare' (to found).
How & Where It’s Used
Common across academic, scientific, and everyday formal writing.