rootstock

noun

root·​stock ˈrüt-ˌstäk 
ˈru̇t-
1
: a rhizomatous underground part of a plant
2
: a stock for grafting consisting of a root or a piece of root
broadly : stock sense 7b

Examples of rootstock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The rootstock is usually hardier or more disease-resistant than the scion. — Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026 Dwarf rootstocks generally produce fruit more quickly than standard apple trees, which can take five to 10 years to bear fruit. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 28 July 2026 Look for citrus varieties grafted onto dwarf or semi-dwarf rootstock so the citrus tree stays small and doesn’t need to be pruned or re-potted as often. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 July 2026 Roses will often have suckers that grow from the rootstock of the rose plant. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for rootstock

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rootstock was in 1832

Rhymes for rootstock

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Browse Nearby Words

rootstalk
rootstock
root sucker
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Cite this Entry

“Rootstock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rootstock. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rootstock

noun
root·​stock ˈrüt-ˌstäk 
ˈru̇t-
1
: rhizome
2
: a root or part of a root to which an aboveground plant part is grafted

More from Merriam-Webster on rootstock

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rootstock

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