noun. A foundation; a basis. synonym: base.

noun. That which forms the foundation of something; the foundation or basis; the fundamental part, principle, or motive: used of both material and immaterial things.

noun. That which forms the foundation or support of anything; the basis; the essential or fundamental part; first principle.

noun. The foundation; the basic or fundamental parts that support or allow for the rest.

noun. lowest support of a structure

noun. preliminary preparation as a basis or foundation

noun. the fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained

"Yes, it needs a bit of time to work out the kinks but I think the groundwork is there for an interesting show that is completely different from Grey's."

legwork  

preparation  readying  

starting-point  underpin  underpinnings  

arrangement  background  base  basement  basic training