Definition of: pivot

(piv′ət) noun
1. Mech. Something, typically a pin or a short shaft, upon which a related part turns, oscillates, or rotates: often a short cylindrical bearing, fixed on only one end, for carrying or rotating a swinging part.
2. Something on which an important matter hinges or turns; a turning point.
3. Mil. In wheeling troops, the soldier, officer, or point upon which the line turns.
—v.t. To place on, attach by, or provide with a pivot or pivots.
—v.i. To turn on a pivot; swing. [<F. Cf. Ital. pivolo a peg.]
—piv′ot·al adjective
—piv′·ot·al·ly adverb
PIVOT
a. Bearing point.