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Definitions

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.

Kharg Island, shipping 90% of Iran’s oil exports, is an economic linchpin.

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

Vocabulary lists containing linchpin

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