DEF: work that is done as a preparation for work that will be done later.
EX: 1. The ministers are meeting this week to lay the groundwork for the agreements that will be signed by the Presidents next month 2. Workers are preparing the groundwork for the future house.
Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
groundwork (noun) - foundation basis laid the groundwork for a new program , also preparation made beforehand - the groundwork was done before the winter tour Susan Reiter
Synonyms:
foundation, foundations
