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

The first 1,000 days of a child's life, often called the "golden period", are pivotal: by age two, 80% of the brain develops, laying the foundation for lifelong potential.

From BBC

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

When she does speak, during a pivotal moment in Edward Berger’s film, it’s from a place of truth, rather than authority or entitlement.

From Los Angeles Times

The world champions were pushed hard by the ferocious Scots, who created - but did not take - multiple chances in a pivotal period during the second half.

From BBC

Related Words

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