keystone
|key/stone|
🇺🇸
/ˈkiːˌstoʊn/
🇬🇧
/ˈkiːˌstəʊn/
central element
Etymology
'keystone' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'key' meaning 'locking' and 'stone' meaning 'rock'.
'keystone' changed from the Middle English word 'keyston' and eventually became the modern English word 'keystone'.
Initially, it meant 'the central stone of an arch', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'central principle or part'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a central stone at the summit of an arch, locking the whole arch together.
The keystone of the arch was carefully placed to ensure stability.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the central principle or part of a policy, system, etc., on which all else depends.
Trust is the keystone of a successful relationship.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/13 01:51