Springboard

Pronunciation

Origin

spring + board

Full definition of springboard

Noun

1. A diving board consisting of a flexible, springy, cantilevered platform, used for diving into water.
2. (gymnastics) A small platform on springs and usually hinged at one end, used to launch or vault onto other equipment.
3. (figuratively) Anything that gives a person or thing energy or impulse, or that serves to launch or begin something.The opportunity served a springboard to their success.

Verb

1. (transitive) To launch or propel as if from a springboard.
• 2007, October 4, Jennifer Steinhauer, In Ballot Fight, California Gets a Taste of ’08, Such a change could amount to a seismic shift in the nation’s electoral dynamics, potentially springboarding a Republican into the White House, and the possibility has animated hopeful Republicans and fearful Democrats.