What does PIVOT mean?

Pivot

Parts of Speech: Noun, Verb

Definitions:

• Noun: the central point, pin, or shaft on which a mechanism turns or oscillates; a person or thing that plays a central role in a situation or enterprise.
• Verb: turn on or as if on a pivot; depend on as a central point.

Pronunciations:

• US: /ˈpɪvət/
• UK: /ˈpɪvət/

Origin and Usage:

The word "pivot" originated from the French word "pivoter" which means "to turn on a central point." The word has been in use since the 17th century. The noun form of "pivot" is commonly used in engineering and mechanics to refer to the central point on which a mechanism turns or oscillates. The verb form of "pivot" is commonly used in business and politics to refer to the act of shifting or changing direction in response to changing circumstances.

Synonyms:

• Noun: axis, fulcrum, center, hub, heart
• Verb: rotate, revolve, turn, swivel, spin

Related Words:

• Point
• Shift
• Change
• Swing
• Focus

Example Sentences:

• The door pivoted on its hinges.
• The company pivoted to focus on online sales during the pandemic.
• He was the pivot of the teams defense.
• The politician had to pivot his campaign strategy after the scandal.