How Do You Spell MAINSTAY?

Pronunciation: [mˈe͡ɪnste͡ɪ] (IPA)

Mainstay is a word with a relatively straightforward spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, the first syllable is pronounced /meɪn/, rhyming with "rain." The second syllable is pronounced /steɪ/, rhyming with "way." Together, the word is pronounced /ˈmeɪnsteɪ/. It is a noun that refers to something that is an important part of something else, often providing support or stability. For example, a mainstay of a successful business might be its dedicated employees or its dependable customer base.

MAINSTAY Meaning and Definition

1. Mainstay is a noun that refers to a person or thing that is essential or vital in providing support, stability, or strength to something. It is often used to describe a necessary and reliable element that serves as a foundation or anchor for the functioning of a system, organization, or activity.

   In a literal sense, the term can be used in a maritime context, where a mainstay refers to a strong line that supports the mainmast of a sailing vessel, preventing it from collapsing. This primary line keeps the mast secure, preventing it from swaying or falling, and it has become synonymous with the dependability and crucial role it plays.

   Figuratively, mainstay is used to describe an integral and irreplaceable element in various contexts. For instance, in the field of medicine, a mainstay treatment is a method that has proven effectiveness in treating a particular condition and is widely used as a standard practice. In the world of sports, it can refer to a star player who is the foundation of a team's success or a strategy that consistently brings good results.

   Overall, mainstay signifies an indispensable cornerstone, an essential support, or a pivotal element that is fundamental to the stability, functioning, and success of a system, activity, organization, or concept.

2. Chief support.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MAINSTAY

• minstry
• mainstain
• mainstary
• maintai
• fanstay
• mainsteam
• minsty
• maindtay
• mainetay
• mainwtay
• mainsgay
• mainsyay
• mains5ay
• mainstag
• maiknstay
• maintay
• mainstayd
• mainstaye
• mainstae
• Paintay
• Maenstay

Etymology of MAINSTAY

The word "mainstay" originated from the combination of two words: "main" and "stay".

The word "main" comes from the Old English word "mægen", meaning strength, power, or force. It is also related to the Old Norse word "megn", with the same meaning.

The word "stay" comes from the Old French word "estai" or "stay", which means a support or prop. It is derived from the Latin word "stare", meaning to stand.

When combined, "mainstay" refers to the main or principal support upon which something relies or depends, often used metaphorically. It implies a sense of strength, stability, and dependence.

Similar spelling words for MAINSTAY

• mainstream,
• mainmast,
• mainsheet.

Plural form of MAINSTAY is MAINSTAYS