About this episode

This episode explores the word 'fulcrum', its definitions, and its usage in both technical and figurative contexts.

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for July 12, 2026 is: fulcrum • \FULL-krum\  • noun In technical use, fulcrum refers to the support on which a lever moves when it is used to lift something. In figurative use, fulcrum refers to a person or thing that makes it possible for something to function or develop, or in other words, one who plays an essential role in something. // Although the lead actor was phenomenal, critics suggested that the supporting cast was the real fulcrum of the show. See the entry > Examples: “The moral fulcrum of Christopher Marlowe’s The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus , in which a scholar gains knowledge and power through a demonic pact, is a relatively straightforward statement on the human condition.” — Eric Olson, Literary Hub , 14 Jan. 2026 Did you know? The Latin word fulcrum , which refers to the head or back support of a couch, comes from the verb fulcīre , which means “to prop, support.” When fulcrum was first used in English in the 17th century, it referred to the point on which a lever or similar device (such as the oar of a boat) is supported. The literal use easily supported figurative use, and it…

Topics covered

• language
• definitions
• figurative language
• technical terms
• literary analysis

Keywords

• fulcrum
• noun
• support
• lever
• essential role
• figurative use
• Marlowe
• literary analysis

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus

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