Fulcrum
[FUHL-krəm]
Part of speech: noun
Origin: Latin, late 17th century
1.
A thing that plays a central or essential role in an activity, event, or situation.
2.
The point on which a lever rests or is supported and on which it pivots.
Examples of Fulcrum in a sentence
"He pointed to his relationship with his wife as the true fulcrum of his success."
"Levers are a simple way to demonstrate how fulcrums work."
About Fulcrum
This word comes from the Latin “fulcrum,” meaning “bedpost, foot of a couch.” It stems from “fulcire,” meaning “to prop up, support.”
Did you Know?
Zoologists sometimes use the word “fulcrum” to describe an animal’s joint that serves as a support or hinge, such as the one in a bird’s wing.
