Basic
/ˈbeɪ.sɪk/noun
Fundamental, simple, or forming the base of something.
Did you know?“Basic” entered English through the language of chemistry and logic, ultimately descending from Greek *basis* meaning a pedestal or foundation, not from any mystical insult at all.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
basis
“a step, pedestal, or foundation”
Latin
Latin
basis
“a base or foundation”
17th Century
English
basic
“of or pertaining to a base or foundation, especially in chemistry”
19th Century
English
basic
“fundamental or elementary”
Modern English
English
basic
“simple, essential, or unadorned”