Definition of mainstaynext
as in anchor
something or someone to which one looks for support Mom has been our mainstay in this crisis

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of mainstay While a few mainstays are still around like Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, with Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart, this latest announcement sees a continuation of a freshening up of its coverage. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026 Royel McFarlane, Crespi, running back, junior McFarlane has been a mainstay in Crespi’s offense since his freshman year. Ethan Hanson, Daily News, 19 Aug. 2026 For more than 50 years, Jakeeno's Pizza and Pasta joint has been a mainstay in south Minneapolis. Jason Rantala, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026 The actor went on to appear in a number of shows and movies before becoming a mainstay on China Beach. Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mainstay
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mainstay
Noun
  • Back in 1892, French artist Paul Signac dropped anchor here, encouraging friends such as Henri Matisse and André Derain to follow.
    Lanie Goodman, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026
  • While the guests enjoy their shrimp, the wind picks up significantly and starts to drag the anchor.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 18 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Michele Goodwin was once part of the American backbone of the $43 billion global industry.
    CNN Staff, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
  • Historically a safe haven, the Vineyard is now seen as the epicenter for changing the narrative on diversity, showcasing Black and Brown Americans as the backbone of the nation's economy and future.
    Doug Melville, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Game publishing is the other new pillar, and Yang is careful not to overstate DRX’s edge there this early.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026
  • The pins printed down to the smallest pillar, appearing like tiny hairs, which required a magnifying glass to verify.
    Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Flight standby lets passengers try to take an earlier flight when an unassigned seat becomes available.
    Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 21 Aug. 2026
  • But anyone returning to their old lunchtime standbys is likely to find a different kind of restaurant waiting for them — one that seemingly highlights everything on the menu except traditional salads.
    Renée Onque, CNBC, 18 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Mainstay.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mainstay. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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