1. The foundation of any thing; that on which a thing stands or lies; the bottom or foot of the thing itself, or that on which it rests. See A full explanation under base.
2. The ground work or first principle; that which supports.
3. Foundation; support.
The basis of public credit is good faith.
The basis of all excellence is truth.
4. Basis, in chimistry. See Base. No. 12.