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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.

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.

Word Ultra — Set 270

Set 270 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: linchpin, bastion, pessulus, indemnity, pathophysiology. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. 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.

  2. 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'

  3. 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'.

  4. 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).

  5. 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.