inchpin

/ɪntʃpɪn/

Definitions

1. noun

a small metal or plastic pin used to hold parts together, especially in machinery, or a person or thing on which a project or activity depends

“The missing inchpin held the entire engine together, making it essential to the entire operation.”

Synonyms

  • keystone
  • linchpin
  • pivot

Antonyms

  • weak link