basal

From WikiWord, the free dictionary

[ˈbeɪsəɫ] English

Definitions

Basic, elementary; relating to, or forming, the base, or point of origin.“A basal reader is a kind of book that is used to teach reading.”
Associated with the base of an organism or structure.“In the spring, basal leaves emerge from a stout taproot.”
Of a minimal level that is necessary for maintaining the health or life of an organism.“a basal diet”
In a phylogenetic tree, being a group, or member of a group, which diverged earlier. The earliest clade to branch in a larger clade.“A magnolia is a basal angiosperm.”