the world > existence and causation > causation > cause or reason > [noun] > fundamental reason or logical basis (6)
The rationale, fundamental principle, or basis of something. Obsolete.
= rationale, n.2 1. Obsolete. rare.
A reason, a rationale; an underlying or fundamental reason. Usually with of. Cf. earlier ration, n. 1. Obsolete.
= rationale, n.2 2. Obsolete. rare.
The fundamental underlying reason for or rational basis of a thing.
U.S. Law. A basis or foundation on which something rests. Cf. sense B.