springboard

[ spring-bawrd, -bohrd ]

noun

1. a flexible board, projecting over water, from which divers leap or spring.
2. a flexible board used as a takeoff in vaulting, tumbling, etc., to increase the height of leaps.
3. something that supplies the impetus or conditions for a beginning, change, or progress; a point of departure:

   a lecture to serve as a springboard for a series of seminars.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to impel or launch on or as if on a springboard.

springboard

/ ˈsprɪŋˌbɔːd /

noun

1. a flexible board, usually projecting low over the water, used for diving
2. a similar board used for gaining height or momentum in gymnastics
3. a board inserted into the trunk of a tree at some height above the ground on which a lumberjack stands to chop down the tree
4. anything that serves as a point of departure or initiation

Word History and Origins

Origin of springboard¹

First recorded in 1865–70; spring + board

Example Sentences

The posting would have been a springboard to a strong run to retain the seat in the November election had Butler chosen to pursue that route.

From Los Angeles Times

It took the opener 79 balls to reach his fifth and slowest ODI half-century before falling to Forde on 74, but only after providing the springboard for England.

From BBC

It has also served as a springboard into politics for some.

From BBC

Gascón has used his position as district attorney as a springboard for a range of reform-minded policies and approaches, often facing resistance within his own office.

From Los Angeles Times

If anything, the ending of this season is a springboard for Robert to go and rediscover himself and try to recapture a part of him that has gone missing.

From Los Angeles Times