Fulcrum

Pronunciation: /ˈfʊlkrəm/

Definitions of fulcrum

noun A thing that plays a central or essential role in an activity, event, or situation

Example Sentences

A1 The seesaw is balanced on a fulcrum in the middle.

A2 The lever pivots on a fulcrum to lift heavy objects.

B1 Understanding the fulcrum point is crucial for using a crowbar effectively.

B2 The fulcrum of the debate shifted when new evidence was presented.

C1 The fulcrum of the company's success lies in its innovative products.

C2 She was the fulcrum of the team, holding everything together during tough times.

Examples of fulcrum in a Sentence

formal The fulcrum of the lever is the point where it pivots.

informal Make sure the fulcrum is in the right position before lifting the heavy object.

slang I can't move this thing without adjusting the fulcrum.

figurative In this debate, the fulcrum of the argument is the ethical implications of the decision.

Grammatical Forms of fulcrum

• plural: fulcrums
• comparative: more fulcrum
• superlative: most fulcrum
• present tense: fulcrum
• future tense: will fulcrum
• perfect tense: has fulcrumed
• continuous tense: is fulcruming
• singular: fulcrum
• positive degree: fulcrum
• infinitive: to fulcrum
• gerund: fulcruming
• participle: fulcrumed

Origin and Evolution of fulcrum

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'fulcrum' originates from Latin, specifically from the word 'fulcire' meaning to support or prop up.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of physics and mechanics to refer to a point on which a lever rests and by means of which it is moved, the word 'fulcrum' has evolved to also be used metaphorically to denote a pivotal point or support in various situations.