[tap-root, -roo
t] 
| a main root descending downward from the radicle and giving off small lateral roots. |
| tap·root (tāp'rōōt', -rŏŏt') n. The main root of a plant, usually stouter than the lateral roots and growing straight downward from the stem. |
The single deep root of many deciduous trees that forms the basis for their root systems.
Note: Figuratively, a “taproot” is the source of an idea or work: “His childhood in Wales is the taproot of his poetry.”
taproot (tāp'r t', -r t') Pronunciation Key
(click for larger image in new window) The main root in gymnosperms, eudicotyledons, and magnoliids, usually stouter than the lateral roots and growing straight downward from the stem. The taproot develops from the primary root. The taproot and its lateral roots penetrate deeper into the soil than the fibrous roots characteristic of monocotyledons. Compare fibrous root. |