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

Other Word Forms

• pivotally adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of pivotal¹

First recorded in 1835–45; pivot + -al ¹

Example Sentences

The Federal Reserve won’t see critical information on U.S. inflation or job creation before its pivotal meeting in December where it will decide whether to cut interest rates for the third month in a row.

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That open house was pivotal in driving partnership agreements and started to fuel the franchise’s success, O’Connor said.

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The work was painted during a pivotal decade in Kahlo's career, marked by her turbulent relationship with Mexican painter Diego Rivera, the auction house said on X.

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A pivotal week of the 2025 campaign features the Rams trying to extend a five-game win streak and the Chicago Bears hoping for their fourth triumph in a row.

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The British bass player had plans to tour the U.K. between September 2026 and June 2027, on an intimate conversation tour where he would share stories from the most pivotal moments in his career.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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