rooting

word · lemma: root

/ˈɹutɪŋ/
/ɹˈuːtɪŋ/

Definition

Establishing deeply or firmly; also, enthusiastically supporting or cheering for someone or something (informal: 'rooting for').

Usage & Nuances

'Rooting for' is the most common usage — it means cheering for or hoping someone succeeds. 'Rooting around' means searching messily. The literal sense (plants rooting) is less common in everyday speech.

Example Sentences

We are all rooting for you to win the competition.

basic

The plant is rooting nicely in the new soil.

basic

She was rooting around in her bag for the keys.

basic

I've been rooting for that team since I was a kid — I can't switch now.

natural

These traditions are deeply rooting themselves in the local culture.

natural

Honestly, I'm just rooting for things to go smoothly at this point.

natural