pivotal

[ piv-uh-tl ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or serving as a pivot.
2. of vital or critical importance:

   a pivotal event.

pivotal

/ ˈpɪvətəl /

adjective

1. of, involving, or acting as a pivot
2. of crucial importance

Derived Forms

• ˈpivotally, adverb

Other Words From

• pivot·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of pivotal¹

First recorded in 1835–45; pivot + -al ¹

Example Sentences

“This was a pivotal and successful year for The Walt Disney Co., and thanks to the significant progress we’ve made, we have emerged from a period of considerable challenges and disruption well positioned for growth and optimistic about our future,” Chief Executive Bob Iger said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

“When you have constant new content coming, it really does help them reduce churn,” said Jeffrey Wlodarczak, chief executive of Pivotal Research Group.

From Los Angeles Times

Brown’s decision to contact authorities, and to ultimately testify at Buck’s trial, was a pivotal moment that helped lead to the Democratic donor’s conviction, and for other victims to come forward, said one of his attorneys, Nana Gyamfi.

From Los Angeles Times

The 22nd Congressional District contest was one of several California seats seen as pivotal to determining which party will control the House.

From Los Angeles Times

Caitlyn makes this clear during a pivotal scene when she follows the literal letter of Vi’s advice to “take the shot” if she sees an opening by endangering the aforementioned Zaun child.

From Salon

Related Words

• central
• climactic
• critical
• crucial
• decisive
• essential
• momentous
• vital