ENGLISH
REFERENCE

rooted

adj. · v.
US //ˈɹutəd// UK //ɹˈuːtɪd// root·ed
  1. 1 unable to move (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    unable to move from a spot because of a strong feeling like fear or shock.

    fixed in one position; rendered immobile by a powerful emotion or physical constraint.

    Example

    She stood rooted to the spot when she saw the bear in the garden.

    Example

    He remained rooted to the floor in disbelief, unable to process the news that his entire department had been dissolved overnight.
  2. 2 deeply connected (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having a strong or basic connection to a place, culture, or idea.

    having a fundamental connection or origin; based or originating from a specific source.

    Example

    His music is deeply rooted in the traditions of his home country.

    Example

    The conflict is rooted in centuries of territorial disputes that modern diplomacy has struggled to resolve.
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  1. 3 broken or in trouble (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Slang British English Dialect

    completely broken, ruined, or in a very bad situation.

    describing something that is non-functional, damaged beyond repair, or a person in a state of significant trouble.

    Example

    I dropped my phone in the lake and now it is completely rooted.

    Example

    The engine is absolutely rooted, and the mechanic says it will cost more to fix than the car is worth.

    Usage

    Common in Australian and New Zealand English to mean 'broken'.

    Teacher's tip

    This term can be considered vulgar in some contexts; learners should use it with caution as it carries a strong tone of frustration.
  2. 4 having administrative access (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    describing a device where the user has gained full control over the system software.

    pertaining to a device, especially a smartphone, where the root directory has been made accessible to the user to bypass manufacturer restrictions.

    Example

    He used a rooted phone to run apps that the manufacturer usually blocks.

    Example

    While a rooted device offers greater customisation, it often voids the warranty and leaves the operating system vulnerable to security breaches.
  3. 5 searched or cheered (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the past action of searching through something or supporting a team.

    the past tense of root; used for the act of rummaging or, in American English, expressing support for a contestant.

    Example

    She rooted through her bag looking for her car keys.

    Example

    The crowd rooted for the underdog throughout the match, hoping for a last-minute comeback.

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