keystone

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.

Last year, some 1,000 U.S. troops withdrew from neighboring Niger, ending a nearly decadelong partnership that was the keystone of U.S. counterterrorism operations in the region.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 2, 2025

They "play a central role in the food web, consuming fish and invertebrates and recycling nutrients" and are one of the "keystone species" of their ecosystem.

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

Sunflower sea stars are considered a keystone species, meaning they are critical in regulating the stability and diversity of their ecosystems.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 4, 2025

"You targeted the police as a keystone of government power," he added.

From BBC • Jun. 13, 2025

There was a general shout of outrage, and then we recommended the building of Leper’s triumphal arch around Brinker’s keystone.

From "A Separate Peace" by John Knowles