groundwork meaning and definition

GROUNDWORK noun

Definition of groundwork (noun)

1. the fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained
   • "the whole argument rested on a basis of conjecture"
   • synonyms: base, basis, cornerstone, foundation, fundament
2. lowest support of a structure
   • "it was built on a base of solid rock"; "he stood at the foot of the tower"
   • synonyms: base, foot, foundation, fundament, substructure, understructure
3. preliminary preparation as a basis or foundation
   • "we are prepared today because of groundwork that was done ten years ago"