1. The initial or foundational amount of money used as a reference point for calculations, often in financial, legal, or contractual contexts
The base sum for the insurance claim was $50,000.
O valor base para a indenização de seguros era de $50.000.
2. In mathematics or accounting, a principal amount before any additions, deductions, or interest is applied
Calculate the interest on the base sum before adding fees.
Calcule os juros sobre o valor base antes de adicionar as taxas.