der Eckpfeiler
Translation
cornerstone, pillar, mainstay
Examples
Der alte Dom hat massive Eckpfeiler.
The old cathedral has massive cornerstones.
Vertrauen ist ein Eckpfeiler unserer Beziehung.
Trust is a cornerstone of our relationship.
Grammar Patterns
a cornerstone ((of sth. / for sth.)) ein Eckpfeiler ((von et3 / für et4)) Honesty is a cornerstone of a good friendship.
Similar Words
die Stütze (support), die Säule (column), die Grundlage (foundation)
Etymology
Compounded from 'Ecke' (corner) and 'Pfeiler' (pillar). Literally a 'corner pillar'.
Memory Tips
Visualize a strong pillar at the corner ('Ecke') of a building, which is the main support. This applies to both literal and figurative meanings.