bedrock

[ bed-rok ]

noun

1. Geology. unbroken solid rock, overlaid in most places by soil or rock fragments.
2. bottom layer; lowest stratum.
3. any firm foundation or basis:

   Technical courses will be founded on a bedrock of sound, general education so as to produce a well-rounded engineer.

4. the fundamental principles, as of a teaching, belief, or science:

   Let's strip away the cant and get down to bedrock.

adjective

1. basic; fundamental.

bedrock

/ ˈbɛdˌrɒk /

noun

1. the solid unweathered rock that lies beneath the loose surface deposits of soil, alluvium, etc
2. basic principles or facts (esp in the phrase get down to bedrock )
3. the lowest point, level, or layer

bedrock

/ bĕd′rŏk′ /

1. The solid rock that lies beneath the soil and other loose material on the Earth's surface.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bedrock¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50; bed + rock ¹

Example Sentences

The Proposition 187 narrative convinced party leaders nationwide that Latinos would become a bedrock voting bloc as the racism they encountered in other parts of the country drove them toward Democrats.

From Los Angeles Times

“We know from recent history that the incoming administration will undoubtedly push both a legislative and a regulatory agenda that is designed to dismantle bedrock conservation laws like the Endangered Species Act, and will work to destroy the wildlife and the habitat that we cherish,” said Pamela Flick, California program director for Defenders of Wildlife.

From Los Angeles Times

But as she continued speaking, they soon returned to cheering as she described the peaceful transition of power, which she pledged to assist him with, as a bedrock of democracy.

From Los Angeles Times

After all, parasites like hematophages are the bedrock of the tree of life, outnumbering free living species by about 3 to 2.

From Salon

Arsenal’s ability to keep players fit was part of the bedrock of last season’s title tilt.

From BBC