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linchpin

noun (also lynchpin)
 
 
/ˈlɪntʃ.pɪn/

Definition

the linchpin of the most important member of a group or part of a system, that holds together the other members or parts or makes it possible for them to operate as intended: Woodford is the linchpin of the British athletics team.Important and essential thingsInformation and messagesImportant people and describing important peopleFamous peopleWealthy people
(Definition of linchpin noun from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

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