Keystone: meaning, definitions and examples
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keystone
[ ˈkiːˌstəʊn ]
architecture
A central stone at the summit of an arch, locking the whole together. It is the most important stone in the structure, as the other stones depend on it for support.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The keystone of the arch was beautifully carved with intricate designs.
- The keystone of the project was completing the research phase successfully.
geology
A large, wedge-shaped stone at the apex of an arch or vault.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The natural keystone formation stood out against the blue sky.
- The geologist pointed out the unique keystone in the rock formation.
general
Something on which associated things depend for support or completion. It is essential for the success or completion of a system or plan.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Time management is the keystone of a successful project.
- Education is often seen as the keystone to a prosperous society.
Translations
Translations of the word "keystone" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pedra angular
🇮🇳 मुख्य पत्थर
🇩🇪 Schlussstein
🇮🇩 batu penjuru
🇺🇦 наріжний камінь
🇵🇱 kamień węgielny
🇯🇵 要石 (かなめいし)
🇫🇷 pierre angulaire
🇪🇸 piedra angular
🇹🇷 köşe taşı
🇰🇷 기초석
🇸🇦 حجر الزاوية
🇨🇿 základní kámen
🇸🇰 základný kameň
🇨🇳 基石 (jīshí)
🇸🇮 temeljni kamen
🇮🇸 hornstein
🇰🇿 негізгі тас
🇬🇪 კუთხის ქვა
🇦🇿 əsas daş
🇲🇽 piedra angular
Word origin
The term 'keystone' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Middle English word 'key' meaning 'wedge'. It was originally used in architecture to refer to the central stone at the summit of an arch. Over time, the term has been extended to represent something crucial or essential in various contexts.
See also: hotkeys, key, keyboard, keyhole, keying, keylogger, keynote, keypad, keys, keyway, keyword.