1. (

• radical ,
• basal ,

) especially of leaves; located at the base of a plant or stem; especially arising directly from the root or rootstock or a root-like stem; "basal placentation"; "radical leaves" ;

2. (

• elementary ,
• elemental ,
• primary ,
• basal ,

) of or being the essential or basic part; "an elementary need for love and nurturing"; "a basal reader" ;

3. (

• basal ,
• base

) serving as or forming a base; "the painter applied a base coat followed by two finishing coats" ;