rootstock

noun

root·​stock ˈrüt-ˌstäk How to pronounce rootstock (audio)
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.
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 In recent years, tomato varieties grafted onto bacterial wilt resistant rootstocks are becoming increasingly available. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 June 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

See All Rhymes for rootstock

Browse Nearby Words

rootstalk
rootstock
root sucker
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rootstock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rootstock. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rootstock

noun
root·​stock ˈrüt-ˌstäk How to pronounce rootstock (audio)
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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