Synonyms of cornerstone

cornerstone

noun

ˈkȯr-nər-ˌstōn 

as in basis

an immaterial thing upon which something else rests

a concern for basic human rights was the cornerstone of the president's foreign policy

Synonyms & Similar Words

• basis
• foundation
• bedrock
• groundwork
• keystone
• justification
• root
• core
• base
• ground
• framework
• underpinning
• premise
• theory
• support
• footing
• focus
• essence
• warp
• warp and woof
• bottom
• infrastructure
• backbone
• center
• assumption
• rationale
• heart
• shore
• substratum
• mount
• bed
• thesis
• presumption
• kernel
• prop
• anchorage
• warrant
• substructure
• bulwark
• nucleus
• hub
• stay
• brace
• buttress
• presupposition
• supposition
• touchstone
• seat
• soul
• eye
• quintessence

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of cornerstone

The Supreme Court has dramatically reshaped elections in recent months, sharply limiting a law that has been a cornerstone of minority voter empowerment, allowing states to gerrymander maps and loosening campaign finance regulations. — Justin Jouvenal, Washington Post, 5 July 2026

After helping Boston win two World Series titles, Lester joined the Cubs and became a cornerstone of Chicago’s historic championship run in 2016. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Food and drink Seasonality and local sourcing are the cornerstones of Indigo, the main restaurant that sits on a mezzanine floor overlooking the lobby bar. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 July 2026

While Barkov and Ekblad were already established as two of Florida’s cornerstone players, Luostarinen was still unproven. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 1 July 2026