groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇nd-ˌwərk 

: foundation, basis

laid the groundwork for a new program

also : preparation made beforehand

The groundwork was done before the winter tour.

—Susan Reiter

Synonyms of groundwork

• foundation
• basis
• cornerstone
• bedrock

Examples of groundwork in a Sentence

they had collectively laid the groundwork for a new kind of art

Recent Examples on the Web

The amendment sets the groundwork for Highfill to issue a new 2026 water and sewer revenue bond to fund upcoming improvements to its water utilities. — Randy Moll, Arkansas Online, 13 Oct. 2026

The goal is to lay the groundwork to start production in the back half of 2027. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026

Chief executive Cristian Rabiti framed the project as essential groundwork for moving high-heat nuclear power into practical service. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026

Even when a race is uphill, showing up builds trust, strengthens local party infrastructure, and lays the groundwork for future victories. — Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing groundwork

• lay the groundwork/foundation

Rhymes for groundwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

groundwork

noun

ground·​work ˈgrau̇n-ˌdwərk 

: foundation sense 2, basis