matrix
nounA situation or surrounding substance within which something else originates, develops, or is contained.
nounThe womb.
nounThe formative cells or tissue of a specialized structure such as a hair, nail, claw, or tooth.
nounThe solid matter in which a fossil or crystal is embedded.
nounGroundmass.
nounA mold or die.
nounThe principal metal in an alloy, as the iron in steel.