noun (n)

• a prominent supporter(noun.person)

  Synonym:
  pillar
  

  source: wordnet30
• a central cohesive source of support and stability(noun.cognition)

  Synonym:
  anchor, backbone, keystone, linchpin, lynchpin
  

  source: wordnet30
• the forestay that braces the mainmast(noun.artifact)

  source: wordnet30
• The stay extending from the foot of the foremast to the maintop.(noun)

  source: webster1913