linchpin
Use Linchpin in a sentence
noun
1.
a pin inserted through the end of an axletree to keep the wheel on.
2.
something that holds the various elements of a complicated structure together: The monarchy was the linchpin of the nation's traditions and society.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
Cite This Source
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Link To linchpin
Collins
World English Dictionary
linchpin or lynchpin (ˈlɪntʃˌpɪn) ![[Click for IPA pronunciation guide]](http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/g/d/dictionary_questionbutton_default.gif) | |
| —n | |
| 1. | a pin placed transversely through an axle to keep a wheel in position |
| 2. | a person or thing regarded as an essential or coordinating element: the linchpin of the company |
| [C14 lynspin, from Old English lynis] | |
| lynchpin or lynchpin | |
| —n | |
| [C14 lynspin, from Old English lynis] | |
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
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2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
Cite This Source
00:10
Linchpin
is always a great word to know.
So is zedonk. Does it mean:
| a stew of meat, vegetables, potatoes, etc. |
| the offspring of a zebra and a donkey. |
Etymonline
Word Origin & History
linchpin
late 14c., from M.E. lins "axletree" (from O.E. lynis, from P.Gmc. *luniso) + pin. The peg that holds a wheel on an axle; now mainly figurative.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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Cite This Source
Example sentences
When her husband was away, she became the family linchpin, providing everything from discipline to carpools.
The linchpin of the process of producing and disseminating scholarship is peer review.
The court indicated that the linchpin of this drug testing program is to protect the health of the students involved.
But the linchpin of the administration's effort is a broad push to support small businesses.
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