expression, noun
roots of grass; hidden places
Literal meaning: the roots of grass. Figuratively, it refers to places hidden from sight or hard to find, often used in the set phrase 草の根を分けて探す (search high and low).
See also: 草の根を分けて探す
彼らは草の根を分けて探すように犯人を捜した。
They searched for the criminal as if combing through every blade of grass.
expression, noun
Common in political and organizational contexts, referring to the ordinary members or local level of a movement, as opposed to the leadership.
その政党は草の根の支持を広げようとしている。
The political party is trying to expand its grassroots support.
草の根運動が社会を変えることもある。
Grassroots movements can sometimes change society.