Cornerstone (Noun)
Meaning 1
A stone at the outer corner of two intersecting masonry walls.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Meaning 2
The fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained; "the whole argument rested on a basis of conjecture".
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The discovery of gravity was the cornerstone of modern physics, upon which many subsequent theories were built.
- Her experience working with at-risk youth was the cornerstone of her graduate school application.
- The assumption that all men are created equal is the cornerstone of the US Constitution.
- The research paper's cornerstone was the notion that climate change is largely caused by human activity.
- The team's success was built on a cornerstone of trust and communication between the players and the coach.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Hyponyms
Meaning 3
A stone in the exterior of a large and important building; usually carved with a date and laid with appropriate ceremonies.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.