HealthJuly 18, 2026

keystone

/ˈkiːstoʊn/

Definition

The central, essential, or foundational element upon which a system or process relies to function effectively.

Etymology

Derived from the architectural term for the wedge-shaped stone at the apex of an arch that locks all other stones into place. By extension, it has come to represent the most important part of a system upon which all other parts depend.

In the news

In the article, the author uses the term to describe the need for a reliable, measurable factor in mental health assessments. A chosen questionnaire acts as the keystone, as it serves as the necessary foundation for evaluating patient progress.

Heralding The Minimal Clinically Important Difference When AI Is Used For Human Mental Health

Read the full article ↗

Forbes

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.