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mainstay

[ˈmeɪnsteɪ]

mainstay Definition

  • 1a person or thing that is the most important or central part of something
  • 2a strong rope supporting the mast of a sailing ship

Using mainstay: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mainstay" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The tourism industry is the mainstay of the local economy.

  • Example

    The mainstay of the company's success is its innovative products.

  • Example

    The mainstay of the navy is its fleet of ships.

mainstay Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for mainstay

Idioms Using mainstay

  • a person or thing that is consistently present or relied upon in a particular context

    Example

    He has been a mainstay in the company for over 20 years.

  • the most important or essential aspect of one's life

    Example

    For many people, their job is the mainstay of their existence.

  • a person or organization that is an essential and reliable part of the local community

    Example

    The local library is a mainstay of the community, providing resources and events for all ages.

Phrases with mainstay

  • to be the most important or essential part of something

    Example

    The agriculture sector is the mainstay of the country's economy.

  • the primary or most effective method of treating a particular condition

    Example

    Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for bacterial infections.

  • a person or group that provides the most consistent and reliable support

    Example

    My family has been the mainstay of support throughout my career.

Origins of mainstay

from 'main' meaning 'chief' and 'stay' meaning 'rope'

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Summary: mainstay in Brief

The term 'mainstay' [ˈmeɪnsteɪ] refers to a person or thing that is the most important or central part of something. It can refer to the backbone of a company, like 'The mainstay of the company's success is its innovative products,' or the primary method of treating a condition, as in 'Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for bacterial infections.' 'Mainstay' extends into idioms like 'a mainstay in/of something,' denoting a consistent presence, and 'mainstay of the community,' indicating an essential and reliable part of local life.

How do native speakers use this expression?