ROOT OUT Meaning and
Definition
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To "root out" means to completely eradicate or eliminate something, typically a problem, a habit, a disease, or an undesirable element. This phrasal verb primarily denotes the act of removing or extracting something from its source or foundation. It conveys the idea of uprooting deeply entrenched issues or infiltrations with determination and persistence.
In a literal sense, "root out" refers to removing a plant or its roots from the ground, ensuring it is completely eradicated. Metaphorically, this expression is commonly used to describe the process of eliminating a problem by addressing its underlying causes. It implies identifying the roots of an issue and taking decisive action to eliminate it entirely.
The term can also be used in a figurative sense, such as "rooting out corruption from an organization" or "rooting out a bad habit from one's life." It emphasizes the thoroughness and resoluteness needed to extinguish the problem entirely, leaving no remnants or possibility for its resurgence.
Overall, "root out" signifies a comprehensive and forceful approach to getting rid of something unwanted or harmful, urging a deeper investigation, strategic planning, and rigorous action to eradicate it completely.
Common Misspellings for ROOT OUT
- eoot out
- doot out
- toot out
- 5oot out
- 4oot out
- riot out
- rkot out
- rlot out
- rpot out
- r0ot out
- r9ot out
- roit out
- rokt out
- ropt out
- ro0t out
- ro9t out
- roor out
- roof out
- roog out
Etymology of ROOT OUT
The phrase "root out" has a literal meaning of removing something from its roots or eradicating it completely. The word "root" comes from the Old English word "rot", which means "plant root" or "underground part of a plant". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wrot", related to the Old Norse "rot" and the Dutch "wortel".
The word "out" comes from the Old English word "ūt", meaning "outside" or "exterior". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "ūt", related to the Old High German "ūz" and the Dutch "uit".
When combined, "root out" originally referred to digging out roots or the act of removing plants from the ground. Over time, the phrase acquired a figurative sense, indicating the process of discovering and eliminating something that is deeply ingrained or hidden.
Idioms with the word ROOT OUT
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root out sth
The idiom "root out something" means to search for and eliminate or remove completely something undesirable or hidden, often suggesting the need for extensive effort or thorough investigation. It is figuratively used to describe the act of discovering and getting rid of something unpleasant, unwanted, or hidden.
Similar spelling words for ROOT OUT
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