linchpin

[linch-pin] / ˈlɪntʃˌpɪn /

NOUN

cornerstone

Synonyms

STRONGEST

essential foundation keystone mainstay pillar

STRONG

anchor base mainspring

WEAK

key element main ingredient

NOUN

keynote

Synonyms

STRONG

basis center core cornerstone criterion crux essence gist heart idea kernel keystone mainspring marrow measure motive nub pith principle root source spring standard substance

WEAK

basic idea central idea

Antonyms

STRONG

end exterior exteriority outside periphery result surface

NOUN

keynote/keystone

Synonyms

WEAK

basic idea basis center core cornerstone criterion crux gist heart idea kernel mainspring marrow measure motive nub pith principle root source spring standard substance

NOUN

mainstay

Synonyms

STRONGEST

backbone bulwark pillar

STRONG

anchor brace buttress crutch maintainer prop sinew staff standby stay strength supporter sustainer upholder

WEAK

good right arm right-hand person

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s home to an oil terminal that ships 90% of the country’s oil exports, and is widely considered an economic linchpin for Iran.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

Analysts say the duration of the conflict is key for markets and the U.S. economy, with the price of oil being a linchpin.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 3, 2026

The “Crossfire” confrontation is a linchpin in this story, but as Zengerle reminds readers, it’s not as cut-and-dry as a comic book villain origin story would be.

From Salon • Feb. 2, 2026

Root's patience at the crease, deft footwork and reading of spin made him the linchpin of England's chase and once he settled in, Sri Lanka found it difficult to know where to bowl to him.

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2026

She thought about something Hazel had confided to her a few nights ago: I think Jason is the linchpin to Hera’s whole scheme.

From "Blood of Olympus" by Rick Riordan

linchpin

Example Sentences

Related Words