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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 Sports are in the midst of a global makeover from narrow manifestations of tribal interest to mainstays of the monoculture. Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 8 Sep. 2026 Nashville mainstay Brad Paisley stalled out at more than 7,000 and contemporary act Hardy (and pal of Morgan Wallen) fell short of the 10,000 mark. Ross Raihala, Twin Cities, 8 Sep. 2026 But the galley’s focal point is its dynamic twist on the classic plate wall, a mainstay of traditional Southern decorating. Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 7 Sep. 2026 Volvo’s mainstay also vies for sales with its smaller and nearly as popular stablemate, the XC60 PHEV. James Raia, Mercury News, 6 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mainstay
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mainstay
Noun
  • The strap anchors between the first two toes with a smooth leather toe post, holding the foot securely while leaving the sides and back of the foot exposed in a classic mule style.
    Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026
  • Earlier Tuesday evening, NBC4 anchor Colleen Williams said the station had lost contact with its crew.
    Karina Tsui, CNN Money, 16 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Ukraine repeatedly has targeted oil facilities that form the backbone of Russia’s economy, one of the world’s largest energy producers.
    Samya Kullab, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Building the nuclear backbone One focus will be NANO Nuclear’s HALEU transportation systems.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 4 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Once inside, curved cherrywood ceilings and tree-like pillars tower over the tables, booths and bar for a cinematic effect.
    Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026
  • High jewelry, which starts at $50,000 for De Beers London, is the third pillar and one that is pulling more than its weight.
    Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 17 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • CareFlite responded with two EMS units and a supervisor, with a helicopter placed on airborne standby, fire officials said.
    Doug Myers, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026
  • This old standby has been reinvigorated with new introductions that please on a number of levels.
    Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mainstay.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mainstay. Accessed 20 Sep. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster