pivotal

adjective

piv·​ot·​al ˈpi-və-tᵊl 

1

: of, relating to, or constituting a pivot

2

: vitally important : critical

pivotally

ˈpi-və-tᵊl-ē 

adverb

Synonyms

• critical
• crucial
• key
• vital

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

Given the lack of standardized transparency across global skincare markets, in-house production serves a pivotal role. —Xandra Harbet, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025

The same videos played a pivotal role in the last trial, when a witness counted the drinks Read appeared to drink at both establishments. —Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 25 Apr. 2025

That trek played a pivotal role in helping Rage Against the Machine go from rising rock group to global phenomenon. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025

The lieutenant governor could play a pivotal role in casting tiebreaking votes in the state Senate, which this year is not on the ballot. —Julia Manchester, The Hill, 24 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

pivotal

adjective

piv·​ot·​al ˈpiv-ət-ᵊl 

1

: of, relating to, or functioning as a pivot

2

: extremely important : critical

a pivotal discovery

pivotally

-ᵊl-ē 

adverb