cornerstone

noun

Etymology: From Middle English corner ston; equivalent to corner + stone. The figurative sense is in part after Psalm 118:22, and is also quoted several times in the New Testament.

1. A stone forming the base at the corner of a building.

   “Clutch it like a cornerstone Otherwise it all comes down Justify denials and Grip 'em to the lonesome end”

2. Such a stone used ceremonially, often inscribed with the architect's and owner's names, dates and other details.

   “The cornerstone on the Flatiron Building is set on the Fifth Avenue facade.”

3. That which is prominent, fundamental, noteworthy, or central.

   “Exceptional service is the cornerstone of the hospitality industry.”

   “That is the cornerstone of any meaningful debate about budgets and projects, regulations and policies.”