springboard

[spring-bawrd, -bohrd]

noun

1. a flexible board, projecting over water, from which divers leap or spring.

2. a flexible board used as a takeoff in vaulting, tumbling, etc., to increase the height of leaps.

3. something that supplies the impetus or conditions for a beginning, change, or progress; a point of departure.

   a lecture to serve as a springboard for a series of seminars.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to impel or launch on or as if on a springboard.

springboard

/ ˈsprɪŋˌbɔːd /

noun

1. a flexible board, usually projecting low over the water, used for diving

2. a similar board used for gaining height or momentum in gymnastics

3. a board inserted into the trunk of a tree at some height above the ground on which a lumberjack stands to chop down the tree

4. anything that serves as a point of departure or initiation

Word History and Origins

Origin of springboard¹

First recorded in 1865–70; spring + board

Example Sentences

“Honey’s is a really great starting place for that; it’s been a springboard for younger artists to come explore and try new things like what Chappell’s done.”

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But quarterback Justin Fields can produce explosive plays with his arm and legs, and a mid-season trip to London has often provided the springboard for a team to turn around their fortunes.

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Over time, the newfound power has raised the profile of attorney general offices across the country, turning them into a springboard for higher office.

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Mexican Chicagoans in the food industry usually acknowledge that Bayless restaurants have served as springboards for a veritable tree of future chef ventures, making him critical for the ecosystem of Midwestern Mexican fine dining.

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Controlling it would give Russia a springboard to deeper attacks targeting big cities and threatening to bring Ukraine to its knees.

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