beginningform
nounUK /bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ fɔːm/
US /bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ fɔːrm/
The first shape or stage of something before it grows or changes.
A seed is the beginningform of a big tree.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The simple first version of a word before it gets endings added.
The beginningform of 'running' is 'run'.
3. The basic shape of a living thing when it is very young.
A tadpole is the beginningform of a frog.
4. The first rough plan of something before it is finished.
Her drawing was the beginningform of a new playground.