linchpin
Pronunciation
Noun
C1 Advanced
Quick answer
A person or thing that is essential to holding a plan, organization, or system together.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
cornerstone
keystone
Usage notes
Describes a person or element without which a whole plan or system would fail.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The head chef was the _____ of the entire restaurant."
Answer: linchpin
In your own words, what does "linchpin" mean?
A person or thing that is essential to holding a plan, organization, or system together.
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