In our team, Sarah is the linchpin who connects all the different departments and ensures everyone is on the same page.
synonyms
keystonelinchanchor
word origin — The term 'linchpin' derives from the Old English 'lyncepin,' where 'lync' means 'to fasten' and 'pin' refers to a small rod or bolt used to keep something in place.
linchpin, bastion, pessulus, indemnity, pathophysiology: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 270. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
linchpin · noun/ˈlɪntʃˌpɪn/
a person or thing that holds something together
In our team, Sarah is the linchpin who connects all the different departments and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Synonyms: keystone, linch, anchor
Origin: The term 'linchpin' derives from the Old English 'lyncepin,' where 'lync' means 'to fasten' and 'pin' refers to a small rod or bolt used to keep something in place.
bastion · noun/ˈbæs.tʃən/
a stronghold or fortification for protection or defense
The ancient castle served as a bastion against enemy invasions, standing firm through centuries of attacks.
Synonyms: fort, stronghold, bulwark
Origin: from Middle French 'bastion', from 'bastir' meaning 'to build'
pessulus · noun/klæsp, ˈfæstənər, hʊk/
a small clasp or fastening device
The artisan used a delicate pessulus to secure the intricate jewelry design.
Synonyms: clasp, fastener, hook
Origin: The word 'pessulus' is derived from Latin, where it means 'a clasp' or 'a fastening'.
indemnity · noun/ɪnˈdɛm.nə.ti/
compensation for damage or loss
The insurance policy provides full indemnity for any damages incurred during the construction project.
Synonyms: compensation, reparation, restitution
Origin: The word 'indemnity' comes from the Latin 'indemnis,' meaning 'unhurt, uninjured,' derived from 'in-' (not) and 'damnum' (harm, loss).
pathophysiology · noun/ˌpæθəˌfɪziˈɑlədʒi/
the study of the functional changes that occur in the body as a result of a disease or medical condition
Understanding the pathophysiology of diabetes is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.
Synonyms: disease pathology, medical pathology, clinical pathology
Origin: The term 'pathophysiology' derives from 'patho-', meaning 'disease', 'physio-', referring to 'function', and '-logy', meaning 'study of' in Greek.