mainstay Meaning, Definition & Usage
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noun a prominent supporter
pillar.
- he is a pillar of the community
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noun a central cohesive source of support and stability
backbone; linchpin; lynchpin; keystone; anchor.
- faith is his anchor
- the keystone of campaign reform was the ban on soft money
- he is the linchpin of this firm
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noun the forestay that braces the mainmast
WordNet
Main"stay` noun
Definitions
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(Naut.) The stay extending from the foot of the foremast to the maintop. -
Main support; principal dependence. The great mainstay of the Church. Buckle.