First Known Use: 1706
Dictionary
crucial
adjective cru·cial \ˈkrü-shəl\
: extremely important
Full Definition of CRUCIAL
1
archaic : cruciform
2
a : important or essential as resolving a crisis : decisive b : marked by final determination of a doubtful issue <the crucial game of a series> c : important, significant <what use we make of them will be the crucial question — Stanley Kubrick>
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Origin of CRUCIAL
French, from Latin cruc-, crux cross
Synonym Discussion of CRUCIAL
acute, critical, crucial mean of uncertain outcome. acute stresses intensification of conditions leading to a culmination or breaking point <an acute housing shortage>. critical adds to acute implications of imminent change, of attendant suspense, and of decisiveness in the outcome <the war has entered a critical phase>. crucial suggests a dividing of the ways and often a test or trial involving the determination of a future course or direction <a crucial vote>.
CRUCIAL Defined for Kids
crucial
adjective cru·cial \ˈkrü-shəl\
Definition of CRUCIAL for Kids
1
: being a final or very important test or decision : decisive <a crucial battle>
2
: very important : significant <Water is a crucial element in our weather.>
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