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Definition of crux

crux

/krʌks/
crux
Adverb:crucially
•
Plural:cruxes
•
Adjective:crucial
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crux Lexical Profile

crux Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The decisive, most important, or central point at issue.

Example

"The crux of the debate centers on how to fund the new healthcare initiative without raising taxes."

2

A particular point of difficulty or a confusing problem.

Example

"Solving the mathematical crux required the team to develop an entirely new algorithm."

3

The most difficult or demanding section of a rock climb or mountaineering route.

Example

"She navigated the crux of the ascent with incredible precision and balance."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for crux

• Nearby Words

crumble
crumpet
crutch
crux
cryptanthus
crystal
cub

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed directly from Latin 'crux' meaning 'cross'. In the 18th century, it was used in English to describe a difficult puzzle or problem (a 'cross' to bear), eventually evolving to mean the essential or most pivotal point of an issue.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Crux. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/crux
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