WordValecornerstone
a foundational stone, often laid ceremonially; a vital element
In more detail
1. (noun) a stone that forms the corner of a building or wall
2. (noun) something that is essential or most important as a basis for something else
Examples
- 1. The cornerstone of the old fortress was carved with the date 1642.
- 2. Education is the cornerstone of a successful society.
How to use cornerstone
Cornerstone is used both literally for an actual stone at a building's corner and figuratively to mean something fundamental or essential that supports something larger. In contemporary usage, the figurative sense predominates, often appearing in phrases like 'the cornerstone of' when discussing abstract concepts, strategies, or beliefs that form the foundation of something important.
Common phrases
- cornerstone of
- lay a cornerstone
- cornerstone of success
- cornerstone of democracy
- cornerstone principle
Synonyms
foundation · base · bedrock · keystone · linchpin
Word family
cornerstones (plural)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse cornerstone with capstone; a cornerstone is a foundational element placed at the start, while a capstone is a finishing or crowning element placed at the end.
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