mainstay

[ meyn-stey ]

noun

1. Nautical. the stay that secures the mainmast forward.
2. a person or thing that acts as a chief support or part:

   Coffee is the mainstay of the country's economy.

   Synonyms: prop, anchor, bulwark, pillar

mainstay

/ ˈmeɪnˌsteɪ /

noun

1. nautical the forestay that braces the mainmast
2. a chief support

Word History and Origins

Origin of mainstay¹

First recorded in 1475–85; main ¹ + stay ²

Example Sentences

This pedigree helped him become a mainstay pundit on the BBC and Match of the Day.

From BBC

Ever since L.A.’s first sushi bar opened in the 1960s, the food has been a mainstay in Little Tokyo.

From Los Angeles Times

Perhaps nothing better illustrated the Bruins’ offseason makeover than the mainstay from a year ago being relegated to a bit player as part of this new ensemble cast.

From Los Angeles Times

The actor talks about becoming a mainstay on Hallmark and ‘This Time Each Year,’ premiering Thursday, her 30th film for the channel.

From Los Angeles Times

Linebacker Ernest Jones IV was a Rams mainstay for three seasons.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• backbone
• bulwark
• linchpin
• pillar