Rätterna

Rötterna is a Swedish word and a common noun meaning “the roots.” In everyday language it denotes origins, ancestry, or the fundamental basis of something, from plants to ideas.

Etymology and usage. The term derives from rot, root, with the definite plural form rötterna. It is used in phrases such as gå till rötterna (“go to the roots”) to emphasize underlying causes or origins, and can apply to both tangible and abstract contexts.

Biology and agriculture. In botany, rötterna refers to the root system of a plant, responsible for water and nutrient uptake and for anchoring the plant in the soil. The health of the roots is often linked to the overall vitality of the organism.

Culture and identity. In genealogy, history, and cultural studies, rötterna denotes heritage and ancestral lineage. The concept is common in discussions of national, ethnic, or family roots and in explorations of personal or collective identity.

Arts and media. Rötterna is a title used for various Swedish-language works that explore heritage and origins, including literature and music. The exact works vary by year and region, reflecting the broad appeal of the concept.

See also. Rötter; root (English); Roots.