as in cornerstones
an immaterial thing upon which something else rests
a sense of history is the keystone to the city's draw as a tourist destination
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Recent Examples of keystones
The theory of evolution, one of the keystones of modern biological theory, is based on the idea that living things on Earth can be traced back to other preexisting types and that the differences are due to modifications that occurred over successive generations.
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Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 Apr. 2026
Just trying to get to the keystones in this instance.
—
Lance Eliot,
Forbes.com,
24 Jan. 2026
And how exactly does that fit into the equation of the keystones of our survival?
—
Outside Online,
12 Nov. 2025
Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 Apr. 2026
Just trying to get to the keystones in this instance.
—
Lance Eliot,
Forbes.com,
24 Jan. 2026
And how exactly does that fit into the equation of the keystones of our survival?
—
Outside Online,
12 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for keystones
Noun
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Curriculum reform was one of the cornerstones of Louisiana’s rise in literacy achievement.
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These changes will have a significant impact in Nevada, where tourism, hospitality, and gaming are cornerstones of the state's economy.
Noun
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At least seven of those winners started charitable foundations, and all nine have made significant gifts to local causes.
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Video on Venezuelan state television showed buildings missing facades, tilted on their foundations.
Noun
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Hillary Rodham Clinton also reflect on the bedrocks of our democracy, including the Electoral College and the peaceful transfer of power.
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Nola and Realmuto, long bedrocks for the organization, are facing turmoil.
Cite this Entry
“Keystones.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/keystones. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.
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