cornerstone

Definition

A stone forming the base at the corner of a building.

Etymology

From Middle English corner ston; equivalent to corner + stone. The figurative sense is in part after Psalm 118:22, and is also quoted several times in the New Testament.

Example Sentences

• "Clutch it like a cornerstone Otherwise it all comes down Justify denials and Grip 'em to the lonesome end"
• "The cornerstone on the Flatiron Building is set on the Fifth Avenue facade."
• "Exceptional service is the cornerstone of the hospitality industry."