Basis

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. The foundation of anything; that on which a thing rests. Dryden.

2. The pedestal of a column, pillar, or statue. [Obs.] If no basis bear my rising name. Pope.

3. The ground work the first or fundamental principle; that which supports. The basis of public credit is good faith. A. Hamilton.

4. The principal component part of a thing.