crucial Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective of extreme importance; vital to the resolution of a crisis
    important.
    • a crucial moment in his career
    • a crucial election
    • a crucial issue for women
  2. adjective satellite having crucial relevance
    • crucial to the case
    • relevant testimony
  3. adjective satellite of the greatest importance
    all important; all-important; of the essence; essential.
    • the all-important subject of disarmament
    • crucial information
    • in chess cool nerves are of the essence

WordNet

Cru"cial adjective
Etymology
F. crucial, fr. L. crux, crucis, cross, torture. See Cross.
Definitions
  1. Having the form of a cross; appertaining to a cross; cruciform; intersecting; as, crucial ligaments; a crucial incision.
  2. Severe; trying or searching, as if bringing to the cross; decisive; as, a crucial test.

Webster 1913