Meaning of the word lynchpin in English

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

lynchpin

US /ˈlɪntʃ.pɪn/
UK /ˈlɪntʃ.pɪn/

Noun

1.

a person or thing vital to an enterprise or organization

Example:
She was the lynchpin of the entire project, coordinating all the different teams.
The CEO is considered the lynchpin of the company's success.
2.

a pin passed through the end of an axle to keep a wheel in position

Example:
The wagon wheel came off because the lynchpin was missing.
He carefully inserted the lynchpin to secure the cart's wheel.