kingpin

• Nom désignant soit la personne la plus importante d'un groupe ou d'une entreprise, soit la cheville ou l'axe d'articulation du système de direction d'un véhicule, soit la quille avant dans un alignement triangulaire de dix quilles.

A noun referring to either the most important person in a group or undertaking, a bolt providing a steering joint in a motor vehicle, or the front bowling pin in the triangular arrangement of ten pins.

1. Most important personB2informal

   The most important or influential person in a group, organization, or undertaking.

   Personne clé

   • He was the kingpin of the local crime syndicate.
   • She is the kingpin of the marketing department.
   • The CEO is the kingpin of the entire company.

   Synonymesbig cheesebig shotbigwigbosschiefhead honchohoncholeaderlinchpinmagnatemainstaymogulpillarprincipal

   Antonymesminornobodynonentitysubordinateunderling

2. C1formaltechnical

   A bolt that provides a steering joint in a motor vehicle, connecting the steering mechanism to the wheels.

   Pivot de direction

   • The mechanic replaced the worn kingpin in the truck's steering system.
   • A faulty kingpin can cause dangerous steering issues.
   • The kingpin is a critical component in heavy vehicle suspension.

   Synonymesswivel pin

3. B2formalsport

   The front bowling pin in the triangular arrangement of ten pins, also known as the headpin.

   Quille de tête (au bowling)

   • He knocked down the kingpin with his first throw.
   • The kingpin is the most important pin to hit for a strike.
   • Aiming for the kingpin is a common strategy in bowling.