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

Representing the cornerstone of ABFF’s commitment to discovery, the section highlights distinctive voices, original storytelling, and compelling artistic vision. — Jack Dunn, Variety, 18 Aug. 2026

Ruti continues to expand with more brick-and-mortar stores and recently opened their first Manhattan store, since the in-person experience has always been a cornerstone of the brand. — Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Take a left on the president of the Confederacy who made the torture of Black bodies the cornerstone of his new nation. — Terry Gross, NPR, 14 Aug. 2026

The focus on crime is seen as a cornerstone issue for Republicans that appeals to Trump’s base along with suburban swing voters, Gorman said. — Collin Binkley, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026