| Library / English Dictionary |
MAINSTAY
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
I. (noun)
Sense 1
Meaning:
The forestay that braces the mainmast
Classified under:
Nouns denoting man-made objects
Hypernyms ("mainstay" is a kind of...):
forestay (an adjustable stay from the foremast to the deck or bowsprit; controls the bending of the mast)
Sense 2
Meaning:
A central cohesive source of support and stability
Example:
he is the linchpin of this firm
Synonyms:
anchor; backbone; keystone; linchpin; lynchpin; mainstay
Classified under:
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents
Hypernyms ("mainstay" is a kind of...):
support (something providing immaterial assistance to a person or cause or interest)
Sense 3
Meaning:
A prominent supporter
Example:
he is a pillar of the community
Synonyms:
mainstay; pillar
Classified under:
Hypernyms ("mainstay" is a kind of...):
admirer; booster; champion; friend; protagonist; supporter (a person who backs a politician or a team etc.)
