keystone

• Nom désignant la pierre centrale qui verrouille une arche et assure sa stabilité, ou, au sens figuré, un élément essentiel et fondamental dont dépend tout un système ou une entreprise.

A noun referring to a central, crucial element that provides support and stability, or the central stone at the top of an arch that locks the structure together.

1. Central support or foundationB2formal

   A central cohesive source of support and stability that holds something together.

   Clé de voûte

   • Trust is the keystone of any strong relationship.
   • Education is often considered the keystone of a successful society.
   • The keystone of his argument was based on solid evidence.

   Synonymesanchorbackbonebasisbedrockcornerstonefoundationlinchpinmainstaypillar

2. Architectural elementB2formal

   The central wedge-shaped stone at the top of an arch or vault that locks the other stones in place.

   Claveau central

   • The ancient Romans perfected the use of the keystone in their arches.
   • The keystone was carefully carved and placed to complete the bridge.
   • Without the keystone, the arch would collapse under its own weight.

   Synonymeskey