basal

Definitions

Forming or belonging to a base or foundation.

Relating to or situated at the base of an anatomical structure.

Relating to the minimum level of energy or activity required to maintain life.

Examples

The patient's basal metabolic rate was measured to determine his daily caloric needs.

The basal layer of the skin is responsible for the constant production of new cells.

Synonyms

fundamental foundational primary essential basic underlying elementary

Antonyms

advanced secondary superficial derivative complex supplementary nonessential