fulcrum

 
Pronunciation: /ˈfʊlkrəm, ˈfʌl-/

noun (plural fulcrums or fulcra /-rə/)

  • the point against which a lever is placed to get a purchase, or on which it turns or is supported.
  • a thing that plays a central or essential role in an activity, event, or situation: research is the fulcrum of the academic community

Origin:

late 17th century (originally in the general sense 'a prop or support'): from Latin, literally 'post of a couch', from fulcire 'to prop up'