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Definition of fundamental

fundamental

/ˌfʌndəˈmɛntl/
fun · da · men · tal

Adverb:fundamentally
•
Plural:fundamentals
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fundamental Lexical Profile

fundamental Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.

Example

"The protection of human rights is a fundamental principle of modern international law."


2

Affecting or relating to the essential nature of something or the crucial point at issue; deep-seated or radical.

Example

"The invention of the internet brought about a fundamental shift in how people communicate."

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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A central or primary rule, principle, or skill on which something is based (usually used in the plural).

Example

"Before attempting advanced techniques, every musician must master the fundamentals of rhythm and pitch."


2

In physics and music, the lowest frequency of a periodic waveform or vibrating object, as distinct from its harmonics or overtones.

Example

"When a guitar string is plucked, it vibrates strongly at its fundamental as well as several higher overtones."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for fundamental

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Late Latin fundamentalis ('of the foundation'), from Latin fundamentum ('foundation, groundwork'), which derives from fundare ('to found') and fundus ('bottom').

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fundamental. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fundamental
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