noun
Used for the origin or source of something, often in a cultural, historical, or personal sense. Common in phrases like ルーツを探る (to explore one's roots).
彼は自分のルーツを探るために、先祖の故郷を訪れた。
He visited his ancestors' hometown to explore his roots.
この音楽のルーツはアフリカにある。
The roots of this music are in Africa.