Meaning of the word fulcrum in English

What does fulcrum mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

fulcrum

US /ˈfʊl.krəm/
UK /ˈfʊl.krəm/
"fulcrum" picture

Noun

1.

the point on which a lever rests or is supported and on which it pivots

Example:
The seesaw needs a strong fulcrum in the middle to balance.
He used a rock as a fulcrum to pry open the heavy lid.
2.

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

Example:
The CEO's decision was the fulcrum of the company's new strategy.
The discovery of oil became the fulcrum for the nation's economic growth.