D defs.my
Entry 4 senses Webster, 1913

Basis

/(bā"sĭs)/ · Ba·sis · IPA /ˈbeɪ.sɪs/
01 n. The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests.
pl. Bases ((bā"sēz))
  1. 1.
    The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests.
  2. 2.
    The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue.[Obs.]
    “If no basis bear my rising name.” Pope.
  3. 3.
    The groundwork; the first or fundamental principle; that which supports.
    “The basis of public credit is good faith.” — A. Hamilton.
  4. 4.
    The principal component part of a thing.