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fulcrum

noun

/ˈfʊlkrəm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fulcrum

A point or support on which a lever or other mechanical device pivots.
"The seesaw is balanced on a fulcrum in the middle."

Detailed meaning of fulcrum

A fulcrum is The fulcrum serves as the pivot point around which the lever or device can move, and it is the point at which the forces acting on the lever are balanced. The location of the fulcrum affects the mechanical advantage of the lever, which is a measure of how much force is required to lift a load. A lever with the fulcrum closer to the load requires less force to lift it, while a lever with the fulcrum farther away from the load requires more force.

In broader terms, a fulcrum can also refer to a central point or an axis around which an action or event occurs. It can also refer to something that serves as a point of support or stability, or a point at which a change or decision is made.
In physics, it is a point where the force can be applied to overcome the resistance.

It is an important concept in physics, mechanics, and engineering, and is used in a wide range of applications, from simple tools like a lever or a seesaw, to more complex machines like cranes and bridges.

Example sentences containing fulcrum

1. The fulcrum of the seesaw allowed for balance.
2. Engineers designed the bridge's main span with a central fulcrum.
3. The lever's fulcrum was carefully positioned for maximum efficiency.
4. The pivot point acted as the fulcrum for the door.
5. Archimedes famously said, "Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world."
6. The seesaw's fulcrum determined how it tilted.
7. The fulcrum of the machine needed regular maintenance.

History and etymology of fulcrum

The noun 'fulcrum' has its etymological roots in Latin. It originates from the Latin word 'fulcire,' which means 'to prop up' or 'to support.' 'Fulcire' is derived from the older Latin term 'fulcus,' signifying a 'post' or 'supporting beam.' In its ancient usage, 'fulcrum' referred to a point of support or pivot used in various mechanical devices, particularly in levers. Over time, this Latin term was adopted into English, retaining its fundamental meaning of a point or support on which a lever or other mechanical device pivots. The etymology of 'fulcrum' underscores its role as a pivotal element in mechanical systems, reflecting its Latin origins in supporting and propping up structures.

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Further usage examples of fulcrum

1. The hinge serves as the fulcrum for the gate.
2. The lever's fulcrum allowed for easy lifting.
3. The balance beam relies on a stable fulcrum.
4. A well-placed fulcrum makes lifting heavy objects easier.
5. The lever's fulcrum point was reinforced for durability.
6. The scientist adjusted the microscope's fulcrum for precision.
7. The success of the lever depends on its fulcrum.
8. The gymnast performed a flawless routine on the uneven bars' fulcrum.
9. The crane's fulcrum was securely anchored to the ground.
10. The lever's fulcrum was perfectly positioned for leverage.
11. The door's fulcrum allowed it to swing smoothly.
12. Engineers calculated the precise location of the fulcrum.
13. The teeter-totter's fulcrum determined how it moved.
14. The lever was able to lift the heavy load with the help of the fulcrum.
15. The weight on one end of the scale is counterbalanced by the fulcrum on the other end.
16. The door hinge acts as a fulcrum, allowing the door to swing open and closed.
17. The fulcrum point on the lever determines the mechanical advantage of the system.
18. The bridge was designed with a fulcrum in the center to evenly distribute the weight.
19. The fulcrum of the compass is the pivot point on which the needle rotates.
20. The fulcrum of the crane allows it to lift heavy loads with a small amount of force.
21. The fulcrum of the teeter-totter is the point where the board pivots up and down.
22. The point at which the force is applied and the resistance is overcome is called the fulcrum.
23. The fulcrum of the scissors is the pivot point where the blades meet.
24. The fulcrum of the pliers is the pivot point where the handles meet.