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Definition of mainstay

mainstay

/ˈmeɪn.steɪ/
main · stay
Plural:mainstays
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mainstay Lexical Profile

mainstay Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person, thing, or principle on which something is based or heavily depends; a chief support.

Example

"Agriculture has been the mainstay of the country's economy for centuries."

2

The principal stay or rope extending from the maintop to the foot of the foremast, serving to support the mainmast.

Example

"During the violent squall, the crew scrambled to reinforce the mainstay to prevent the mast from snapping."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

mainsail
mainspring
mainstage
mainstay
mainstream
mainstreaming
mainstreet

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 15th century (in the nautical sense): a compound of 'main' (referring to the mainmast) and 'stay' (a supporting rope). The figurative meaning of 'chief support' developed in the late 18th century.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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