pivot
Pivot (noun) means a central point or shaft on which something turns or balances. Example: “The door swings on a pivot set into the frame.”
How to use pivot
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe point something turns around — physically (a hinge) or figuratively (a business changing direction).
Word forms
pivoted past tense, pivots plural, pivots singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The door swings on a _____ set into the frame.
Etymology
From Old French pivot, "hinge pin," possibly traced back to a Latin word for a pointed object.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “pivot” mean?
The word “pivot” means a central point or shaft on which something turns or balances. In plain terms, the point something turns around — physically (a hinge) or figuratively (a business changing direction).
How do you pronounce “pivot”?
“Pivot” is pronounced PIHV-iht (/ˈpɪv.ɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “pivot” in a sentence?
Here is “pivot” used in a sentence: “The door swings on a pivot set into the frame.”
What part of speech is “pivot”?
Depending on how it is used, “pivot” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “pivot” come from?
The word “pivot” comes from Latin. From Old French pivot, "hinge pin," possibly traced back to a Latin word for a pointed object.
Is “pivot” a common word?
“Pivot” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “pivot” have?
“Pivot” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a central point or shaft on which something turns or balances.