Definition of "pivot" []

• A short rod or shaft on which a related part rotates or swings. (noun)
• A person or thing on which something depends or turns; the central or crucial factor. (noun)
• The act of turning on or as if on a pivot. (noun)
• Basketball A position taken by an offensive player usually facing away from the basket near the foul line to relay passes, attempt a shot, or set screens. (noun)
• Basketball The stationary foot around which the ball handler is allowed to pivot without dribbling. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Morrissey also notes that this is the second time official white house communications have used the term pivot"
• "The word "pivot" is often batted around in Silicon Valley circles to indicate a change in direction or business model for a company."
• "He spoke with pride of accomplishing what he called a "pivot" from the policies of George W. Bush."