Definition

The lowest level of a building, often found below ground, used for storage or as living space.

Example

We turned the old basement into a cozy family room.

Conversation

Have you checked out the basement in my new house yet?

Not yet! Is it nice down there?

Yeah, it's pretty spacious and would be great for a game room.

That sounds awesome! We should definitely hang out there sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Basement → It is formed from "base" (from Latin "basis", meaning foundation or support) and "-ment" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an action or resulting state). The word "basement" refers to a space that serves as the foundation or lower part of a building.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'foundation' ('base') that supports a structure, and the '-ment' indicates a state or condition. This helps you remember that a basement is the foundational space of a building.

Visually Confused Words