cornerstone

• Nom désignant une pierre angulaire au sens propre, et surtout, de manière métaphorique, un élément fondamental, une base ou un principe essentiel sur lequel repose quelque chose.

A noun referring to a fundamental or essential part of something, often used metaphorically to describe a key principle or foundation.

1. Foundation stoneB2formal

   A stone that forms the base of a corner of a building, often laid with ceremony.

   Pierre angulaire

   • The cornerstone of the cathedral was laid in 1885.
   • They engraved the date on the cornerstone.
   • The building's cornerstone is made of granite.

   Synonymesfoundation stonequoin

2. Fundamental basisB2formal

   An essential part or foundation upon which something depends.

   pierre angulaire

   • Education is the cornerstone of a successful society.
   • Trust is the cornerstone of any strong relationship.
   • The constitution is the cornerstone of our legal system.

   Synonymesanchorbackbonebasisbedrockessentialfoundationkeystonelinchpinmainstaypillar

   Antonymesafterthoughtbyproduct