Grounded
'ɡraʊndɪd
Definitions
3 meaningsTo base or establish something on a firm foundation or principle.
'ɡraʊndɪd
To establish or set on solid ground; to provide a basis for.
The company's success was grounded in years of hard work and dedication.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a sandcastle. You need to put the foundation, or the bottom part, on solid ground so it doesn't fall over. Grounding something means you're giving it a strong foundation.
👶 For kids: To put something on a solid base or foundation.
More Examples
The theory is grounded in scientific observations.
His fears were grounded in his past experiences.
How It's Used
"The argument was grounded in sound logic and empirical evidence."
"The court's decision was grounded on the precedent established in a previous case."
Sensible and level-headed; practical and realistic.
'ɡraʊndɪd
Having practical and realistic views.
Despite her fame, she remained grounded and humble.
💡 Simply: When someone is 'grounded', it means they are real, not too dreamy or out of touch with reality. They're practical and think things through. It's like having your feet firmly on the ground!
👶 For kids: Being sensible, and practical in the way you think or act.
More Examples
He is a grounded and pragmatic leader.
The grounded design made the house practical and comfortable.
How It's Used
"She is a grounded individual, not easily swayed by fleeting trends."
"The grounded advice from the experienced mentor helped her career."
Restricted to one's home as a punishment, typically for misbehavior.
'ɡraʊndɪd
Denied privileges as a punishment, especially being confined to one's home.
He was grounded for not doing his homework.
💡 Simply: If you're 'grounded', it means you're in trouble and have to stay home as a punishment, like you're not allowed to go out and play.
👶 For kids: When you're in trouble and can't go out to play or do fun things.
More Examples
She hated being grounded, but knew she deserved it.
The kids were grounded for a week.
How It's Used
"The teenager was grounded for staying out past curfew."
"After the incident, the child was grounded for a week."
Idioms & expressions
grounded in reality
Based on or considering real situations, and facts.
"His plans, grounded in reality, had a high chance of success."
grounded in experience
Stemming from practical knowledge gained over time.
"Her decisions were grounded in years of experience."
From Middle English grounden, past participle of grounden ('to ground'), from Old English grundian ('to ground, found'), from grund ('ground').
The term 'grounded' has its roots in both literal and figurative contexts, with early uses referring to physical grounding, and later evolving to describe a firm basis for concepts or actions.
Memory tip
Think of building a house: it needs to be grounded to the earth to stand strong.
Word Origin
"to put on the ground; to provide a base or foundation"