Grass roots
Meaning
The most basic level of an organization or activity, made up of ordinary people rather than leaders.
Origin
The image of 'grass roots' vividly evokes the lowest, most fundamental layer of something, much like the extensive, interconnected network of roots that anchor a field of grass. This metaphor gained prominence in early 20th-century American politics, particularly in the 1910s and 1920s, to describe political movements that originated not with powerful leaders or urban elites, but with ordinary citizens in local communities. It was a powerful, democratic image, suggesting that true popular power grew organically from the ground up, rather than being imposed from above, and it quickly became a rallying cry for campaigns seeking broad public support.
Examples
- The political campaign focused on building a strong movement from the grass roots up, engaging local communities directly.
- True change often begins at the grass roots, with everyday citizens advocating for what they believe in.