noun
fulcrum
FUULK-ruhm
Fulcrum (noun) means the fixed point on which a lever rests and turns. Example: “The seesaw balances on a central fulcrum.”
noun
1
The fixed point on which a lever rests and turns.
"The seesaw balances on a central fulcrum."
"A crowbar needs a solid fulcrum to lift heavy objects."
2
Figuratively, the central point on which everything else depends.
"Trust became the fulcrum of their whole partnership."
How to use fulcrum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe pivot point that everything else turns or balances around, literally or figuratively.
Common pairings
act as a fulcrum
the fulcrum of the lever
a fulcrum for change
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Word forms
- Plural
- fulcrums, fulcra
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The seesaw balances on a central _____.
Etymology
From Latin fulcrum, "bedpost" or "prop," from fulcio, "to support."
Frequently asked questions
What does “fulcrum” mean?
The word “fulcrum” means the fixed point on which a lever rests and turns. In plain terms, the pivot point that everything else turns or balances around, literally or figuratively.
How do you pronounce “fulcrum”?
“Fulcrum” is pronounced FUULK-ruhm (/ˈfʊlkɹəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “fulcrum” in a sentence?
Here is “fulcrum” used in a sentence: “The seesaw balances on a central fulcrum.”
What part of speech is “fulcrum”?
“Fulcrum” is a noun.
Where does the word “fulcrum” come from?
The word “fulcrum” comes from Latin. From Latin fulcrum, "bedpost" or "prop," from fulcio, "to support.".
How many meanings does “fulcrum” have?
“Fulcrum” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the fixed point on which a lever rests and turns.
