pivot

A fixed point or part around which something turns.

• The lever turns around a pivot.
• A loose pivot made the metal arm shake.
• The door rotates on two pivots instead of ordinary hinges.

Similar words: fulcrum

Common phrases: central pivot, pivot point, turn around something’s pivot

To turn around a fixed point while staying in the same place.

• The chair can pivot freely.
• She pivoted on one foot to face him.
• The gate pivots around a strong metal post.

How to use it: pivot on/around something (The metal arm pivots on a small pin.)

Similar words: turn, rotate

Common phrases: pivot on something, pivot around something, pivot to face