Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Basis
1.
The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests.
Dryden.
2.
The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue.
[Obs.]
If no
basis
bear my rising name. Pope.
3.
The groundwork; the first or fundamental principle; that which supports.
The
basis
of public credit is good faith. A. Hamilton.
4.
The principal component part of a thing.
Webster 1828 Edition
Basis
BA'SIS
,Noun.
1.
The foundation of any thing; that on which a thing stands or lies; the bottom or foot of the thing itself, or that on which it rests. See a full explanation under base.2.
The ground work or first principle; that which supports.3.
Foundation; support. The basis of public credit is good faith.
The basis of all excellence is truth.
4.
Basis, in chimistry. See Base. No. 12.