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Meaning of keystone
The primary meaning of the word "keystone" refers to a central or crucial element that holds something together or gives it strength and stability.
Etymology of keystone
The word "keystone" originates from the combination of "key" and "stone", with "key" referring to something that unlocks or explains something, and "stone" referring to a rock or pebble
Historically, the term "keystone" was first used in the 17th century to describe the central stone in an arch that locked the other stones together
Over time, the term has been extended to describe any central or crucial element that holds something together or gives it strength and stability
Synonyms
Definitions
- A stone that is placed at the top of an arch to distribute its weight evenly and prevent it from collapsing
- A central or crucial element that holds something together or gives it strength and stability
- In ecology, a species that has a disproportionate impact on its environment and plays a unique role in maintaining the structure of its ecosystem
Usage Examples
- The keystone of the arch was carefully carved to fit perfectly into place
- The company's CEO is the keystone that holds the organization together
- The loss of the keystone species has had a devastating impact on the ecosystem