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

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."

Figuratively, the central point on which everything else depends.

"Trust became the fulcrum of their whole partnership."

How to use fulcrum

Learner’s notes

In 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

Word forms

fulcrums plural, fulcra plural

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The seesaw balances on a central _____.

Etymology

From Latin fulcrum, "bedpost" or "prop," from fulcio, "to support."

Origin: Latin

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.