grassroots

[gras-roots, -roots, grahs-] / ˈgræsˌruts, -ˌrʊts, ˈgrɑs- /

NOUN

ordinary citizens

Synonyms

WEAK

Middle America common people hoi polloi laboring class middle class proletariat rank and file the masses wage-earners working class working people

ADJECTIVE

involving ordinary people, rather than politicians

Synonyms

STRONG

democratic local middle-class neighborhood provincial working-class

WEAK

broad-based everyday popular populist widespread

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The golf industry is beginning to adapt to these pressures, but local golf courses must lead at the grassroots level.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

But the gap between grassroots fundraising and a $15-million build remains formidable.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

And it is a sentiment shared by Sam Booth and Jon Cornbill, from the Lubber Fiend, another small venue which opened in 2022 as a DIY grassroots music venue which also hosts club nights.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

Xosei added that while it was "encouraging to see African nations taking centre stage in these discussions", she highlighted the importance of grassroots action.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Black Americans sent up a cheer of jubilation, and the ruling provided momentum and hope to grassroots civil resistance and social movements throughout the land.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

Vocabulary lists containing grassroots

Idioms and Expressions, List 4

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Civics II

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