basisn.[L. basis, Gr. ba`sis. See Base, n.]1. The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests.(Dryden.)2. The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue.()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.()