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Definition of linchpin

linchpin

/ˈlɪntʃ.pɪn/
linch · pin
Plural:linchpins
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linchpin Lexical Profile

linchpin Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person or thing vital to an enterprise or organization, holding together the various elements of a complicated structure.

Example

"Reliable public transportation is the linchpin of the city's long-term economic development plan."

2

A metal pin passed through the end of an axle to keep a wheel in position.

Example

"The mechanic secured the heavy wagon wheel by sliding a steel linchpin through the axle."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for linchpin

• Nearby Words

limpopo
limunsudan
linaria
linchpin
lincoln
lindelofia
linden

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'linse-pin', a compound of Old English 'lynis' (meaning 'axle-tree' or 'linchpin') and 'pinn' (meaning 'peg' or 'pin').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Linchpin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/linchpin
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