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

While his points per game slightly dipped in 2024 and 2025, his elite rushing ability remains a cornerstone of his value, highlighted by 14 rushing touchdowns last season. — Steve Bradshaw, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026

Olive Oil Olive oil is a cornerstone of Mediterranean-style eating and a major source of healthy fats and polyphenols. — Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 30 Aug. 2026

One of the cornerstones of the Boise State football program is finding underrated talent from across the Gem State and turning those players into starters and even all-conference performers. — Idaho Statesman, 29 Aug. 2026

In the early ‘60s, the Tower Theater’s films entertained Cuban refugees and introduced them to American culture, making the theater a cultural cornerstone for the local Cuban community. — Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 28 Aug. 2026