keystone Definition
- 1the central stone at the summit of an arch, locking the whole together
- 2a central principle or part of a policy, system, etc., on which all else depends
Using keystone: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "keystone" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The keystone of the bridge was carefully placed.
Example
The keystone of his argument was that the company needed to focus on innovation.
Example
The keystone species in this ecosystem is the beaver.
keystone Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for keystone
- foundation
- linchpin
- mainstay
- cornerstone
- centerpiece
Phrases with keystone
Example
Exercising regularly is often considered a keystone habit that can lead to better sleep, improved mood, and increased productivity.
keystone species
a species that plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem
Example
The sea otter is a keystone species in the kelp forest ecosystem, as it helps control the population of sea urchins, which would otherwise overgraze the kelp.
Example
The Keystone Pipeline has been a controversial issue due to concerns about its environmental impact.
Origins of keystone
from Old English 'cēapstān', meaning 'buying stone'
Summary: keystone in Brief
The term 'keystone' [ˈkiːstəʊn] refers to the central stone at the top of an arch that locks the structure together. It also denotes a central principle or part of a policy, system, etc., on which all else depends. Examples include 'The keystone of the bridge was carefully placed.' and 'The keystone species in this ecosystem is the beaver.' 'Keystone' extends into phrases like 'keystone habit,' referring to habits with positive ripple effects, and 'keystone pipeline,' a pipeline system transporting crude oil from Canada to the United States.
