pivotal

adjective

piv·​ot·​al ˈpi-və-tᵊl How to pronounce pivotal (audio)
Synonyms of pivotalnext
1
: of, relating to, or constituting a pivot
2
: vitally important : critical
pivotally adverb

Examples of pivotal in a Sentence

She is at a pivotal point in her career. the report was missing a pivotal piece of information
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Much of Gen Z missed out on pivotal years in the classroom or office during the pandemic, impacting their ability to socialize. Rachel Hale, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026 Self appreciates that clash and, naturally, knows how it unfurls could be pivotal in the game. Kansas City Star, 31 Jan. 2026 In this week's Club Check-in, Paulina Likos and Zev Fima break down the uncertainty surrounding the Federal Reserve as markets approach a pivotal transition in May, when a new Fed chair is expected to be appointed, and assess how Club members should be thinking about their investments. Paulina Likos,zev Fima, CNBC, 30 Jan. 2026 Gameweek 24 feels like a pivotal moment to gain rank and pursue some upside. Abdul Rehman, New York Times, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pivotal

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of pivotal was in 1838

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pivotal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pivotal. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

pivotal

adjective
piv·​ot·​al ˈpiv-ət-ᵊl How to pronounce pivotal (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or functioning as a pivot
2
: extremely important : critical
a pivotal discovery
pivotally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on pivotal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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