basic

Definition

Necessary, essential for life or some process.

Etymology

From base + -ic.

Example Sentences

• "Flour is a basic ingredient of bread."
• "Over the past few weeks, U.S. Coast Guard service members, civilian employees and their families have had to scramble to pay for basic necessities. Many have taken donations of food and toiletries from their communities, and frantically called their banks and credit unions to try to avert financial disaster."
• "Having access to the truth is a basic right of the general public."