fulcrum
noun
The point on which a lever rests or is supported and on which it pivots; a thing that plays a central or essential role in an activity or situation.
Etymology
From Latin "fulcrum" (bedpost, foot of a couch), from "fulcire" (to prop up, support). Archimedes famously explored fulcrums in his work on levers.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The fulcrum was positioned to maximize mechanical advantage."
- 2.
"Her testimony became the fulcrum on which the entire case turned."
- 3.
"The negotiations reached a fulcrum that would determine the outcome."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Archimedes said, "Give me a place to stand and a lever long enough, and I will move the Earth." He understood that with the right fulcrum placement, even small forces can overcome enormous resistance.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (F, U, L, C, R, U, M)
Scrabble Value: 14 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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